transhumanceseasonal

Transhumance is a traditional form of pastoralism where livestock are moved seasonally between fixed summer and winter pastures. This cyclical migration is driven by the need to access better grazing land and water resources as they change with the seasons. Typically, animals are moved to higher altitudes in the summer months to take advantage of lush mountain pastures, and then brought back down to lower valleys in the winter to avoid harsh weather and find more accessible food.

This practice has been observed across many cultures and geographical regions throughout history, from the Alps and Pyrenees in Europe to the Himalayas and the plains of Africa. Transhumance plays a significant role in the management of livestock, allowing for the efficient utilization of land that might otherwise be unsuitable for year-round grazing. It also contributes to the biodiversity of these landscapes by preventing overgrazing in any single area.

While modern agricultural practices and changing land use patterns have led to a decline in transhumance in some parts of the world, it remains an important livelihood and cultural tradition for many communities. Efforts are sometimes made to preserve these practices, recognizing their ecological and cultural value. The routes used for transhumance, often called drove roads or cañadas, are also historical landmarks in themselves.