Cowherd

A cowherd is a person whose principal occupation is tending cattle. The duties include guiding and watching over the herd as it grazes, ensuring access to water and fodder, monitoring cattle health, administering basic care, recognizing signs of illness, and assisting with breeding and calving. Cowherds may also help with milking, moving cattle between pastures, and protecting the herd from predators. In some systems they accompany cattle on seasonal migrations or transhumance arrangements.

Regional variations exist. In many pastoral and farming communities, the cowherd is a central figure in livestock management. In Europe and the Americas, similar labor is often described as a drover or cowboy, particularly when herding cattle over long distances or managing ranch herds. In South Asia and parts of Africa, cowherds may work within village-based dairy or draught cattle systems and can be associated with specific communities or ethnic groups. The practice of moving cattle with the seasons is a long-standing adaptation to arid or seasonal environments.

Tools and practices include simple staffs or sticks, herding dogs, bells or noise makers to guide cattle, and fencing or paddocks to contain groups. Identification of animals through branding or ear tagging is common, as is coordinating with livestock owners for milking, breeding, or sale. Movement schedules often align with weather, forage quality, and water availability.

Contemporary relevance varies by region. Mechanization and commercial ranching reduce demand for traditional cowherds in some areas, but many still work as farm laborers, family members, or staff on dairy or beef operations, especially in regions with extensive grazing.