A form of subsistence agriculture based on the seasonal movement of livestock from one grazing area to another. It is typically practiced in arid and semi-arid regions where settled agriculture is difficult or impossible. Animals, such as cattle, sheep, goats, and camels, provide milk, meat, and wool. Examples of this type of livelihood are found in parts of North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, where climatic conditions and terrain limit crop production. These herders often follow established migratory routes dictated by seasonal changes in vegetation and water availability.
This pastoral system plays a significant role in sustaining populations in marginal environments. It allows for the utilization of land that is unsuitable for farming, and it represents a traditional way of life for many cultural groups. Historically, it has shaped trade networks and cultural exchange across vast distances. The practice is closely linked to the environment and the well-being of the animals, highlighting the importance of resource management and adaptation to climate variability. The maintenance of biodiversity is also intertwined with this lifestyle, influencing plant life through grazing patterns.
