A pastoral practice characterized by the cyclical movement of livestock between grazing areas, typically in response to seasonal availability of forage and water. This system involves communities that do not establish permanent settlements, instead migrating with their animals, which often include cattle, sheep, goats, camels, or yaks. The livelihood of these groups depends almost entirely on the products derived from their herds, such as milk, meat, wool, and hides, which are utilized for sustenance and trade.
This mobile strategy is crucial for utilizing resources efficiently in environments where settled agriculture is unsustainable, such as arid or mountainous regions. Historically, it has been a widespread adaptation to marginal lands, enabling human populations to thrive in otherwise inhospitable areas. It contributes to biodiversity by preventing overgrazing in specific locations and promotes a sustainable use of rangelands. Furthermore, it maintains traditional cultural practices and knowledge systems related to animal husbandry and resource management.
