Udehe

Udehe is a Tungusic people indigenous to the Russian Far East. They traditionally inhabited the Ussuri River basin and the Sikhote-Alin mountain range, primarily in the Primorsky Krai and Khabarovsk Krai regions. The Udehe historically lived a semi-nomadic lifestyle, relying on hunting, fishing, and gathering. Their traditional diet consisted of game, fish, berries, and wild plants. They were known for their deep connection to nature and their animistic beliefs, which involved veneration of spirits residing in animals, plants, and natural landmarks.

The Udehe language belongs to the Tungusic language family. However, due to historical assimilation and societal pressures, the language is now critically endangered, with very few fluent speakers remaining. Many Udehe people today speak Russian as their primary language.

Historically, the Udehe were organized into clans and lived in small, scattered settlements. Their traditional dwellings were often made of wood and bark. Contact with Russian settlers and the Soviet government led to significant changes in their way of life, including forced collectivization and the suppression of traditional practices. Despite these challenges, efforts are ongoing to preserve Udehe culture and identity, including language revitalization programs and the documentation of their oral traditions and history. The Udehe population is relatively small, with most residing in rural areas.