4 October 2024

Tibet - Yaks and the ecosystem of Tibetan herders

Francis Tsang on LinkedIn: Indeed, human-wildlife conflict is particularly pronounced in Tibetan communities, where traditional pastoral lifestyles intersect with the natural habitats of various wildlife species. The vast Tibetan Plateau grasslands and high altitudes serve as crucial ecosystems for numerous endangered and unique species. Still, these same areas are also essential for the livelihoods of local herders who depend on grazing lands for their domestic yaks.


Domesticated Tibetan Yaks are commonly home-slaughtered just before winter at a village or open slaughter site where semi-skilled Tibetans butcher the animals. Yak meat is then dried for later consumption.


Together with Snowland Great Rivers Environmental Protection Association (SGR) Tibetan environmental NGOs, our goal is to ethically purchase and save as many raw Tibetan Yak hides as possible from each herder and farmer family without dumping them in a landfill.

 

Footnote:

Tibetan herders often adapt to the harsh and changeable conditions of the high-altitude plateau where they live. When it comes to caring for their yaks, especially the younger and more vulnerable ones, they might set up temporary shelters to protect them from the elements.


These shelters could be simple structures made from materials readily available in the environment, such as yak hair fabric, which is known for its durability and insulation properties. They might also use branches, stones, or other natural materials to create a windbreak or a small pen that can provide warmth and protection during the night or inclement weather.


Younger yaks require extra care because they are more susceptible to extreme temperatures and predators. By providing a safe place for the night, Tibetan herders ensure the health and safety of their young livestock, which is crucial for their livelihood and the sustainability of their herding practices.

 

More information
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7247037668344143873/

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We bring leather, material and fashion businesses together: an opportunity to meet and greet face to face. We bring them from all parts of the world so that they can find fresh partners, discover new customers or suppliers and keep ahead of industry developments.

 

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