Yaks: The Treasure and Ship of Mountains
Nestled in the majestic Himalayan and Tibetan plateaus, yaks stand as resilient and hardy creatures, often referred to as the “treasure” and “ship” of these rugged landscapes. These remarkable bovines play a pivotal role in the lives of the people dwelling in the high-altitude regions of Asia. Their significance spans various aspects, from economic sustainability to cultural traditions and environmental conservation.
Yak is a remarkable bovine species of socio-economic importance in high hill and snow bound areas in India, Bhutan, China, Mongolia, Nepal and other parts of central Asia. It is a multipurpose animal, reared on pastoral system on alpine pastures. Yaks provide milk, meat, fibre, hide and dung at locations where other agricultural activities, including livestock husbandry, are not available. The yak is used as a pack animal for the transportation of household goods and is the backbone of the livelihood support of the tribal population of yak rearers in India. At present, yak husbandry is being confronted with so many issues like indiscriminate breeding, degradation of highland pasture, prevalence of diseases, unscientific management practices and global warming. The climate change has special impact on emergence and new transmission modalities of trans-boundary diseases, vector borne diseases and macro parasites of yaks. Therefore, great challenge is left in future with the institute to make the yak husbandry system more remunerative by improving germplasm, addressing feed crisis especially during winter, adopting scientific management practices, value addition and improving quality of yak products, networking of stakeholders to address problems on a platform and finally more income to yak rearers.
Keywords: yak, husbandry, management, problems
INTRODUCTION
The generic Tibetan name of Yak means “wealth” or “Jewels that grant all wishes”. For Nomadic Tibetan yak are so valuable that they call it “Norbu” meaning Treasure. According to Bon religion, yak came from heaven to the top of Gangdese Mountain. Of the Buddhist warriors, one had a yak head. Yak represent as a symbol of Purity, strength and courage.
The domestic yak is descended from the wild yak and Tibetan plateau could be the central of yak domestication in early period of Tibet civilization later integrated in culture. Yaks are an essential means of subsistence and productivity in all high-altitude pastoral societies. It is also known as “boat of the plateau” due to load carrying capacity across high passes in the mountain region. People consume yak milk and meat. Yak meat is high in protein, skin used to make coat and tent.
Yak rearing is an eco-friendly and economically important traditional technology in high altitude hilly Himalayan ecosystem. It continues to represent the lifeline of highlanders. It fulfills a much wide range of functions and provides a large number of products. Yak thrives under harsh environment and its maintenance is ecologically important. Moreover, due to its importance on livelihood and socio-economic issues of yaks, this species has earned several names like the Bison of Tibet, Ship of the Plateau, Coconut of Animals or simply Gold of Tibetans. Yak (Poephagus grunniens) farming is an eco-friendly economically important traditional technology practiced based on traditional knowledge by tribal’s living in high altitude hilly ecosystem. It is part and parcel of social and cultural fabric of tribal yak herdsmen living in difficult hilly terrains of Himalayas in India. The Yak belongs to the order Artiodactyla, family Bovidae, sub family Bovinae, genus Bos and subgenus Poephagus. China is the original home-tract of yak having long history yak rearing. Bos grunniens means the grunting ox. The yaks are reared under free-range system and are found in alpine and sub-alpine regions usually between 3000-4500m above mean sea level (msl) with a cold, semi-humid climate and even at 6000m above msl. The home tract of yaks is characterized by a harsh climate of cool moist summer, severely cold winter having availability of grazing resources restricted by very short growing seasons. The yak germplasm has lots of unexploited potentials viz. cold tolerance, conversion of coarse roughages, sustenance on limited fodder, good markets for milk/meat products, packability on high and difficult hilly terrain and finally intimacy with the socio-cultural milieu and livelihood of the tribal yak rearers of the region. Yak plays a multifarious useful role and indispensable to the highlanders under the prevailing cultural and socio-economic conditions. The range of products and services provided by the yak includes; milk, meat, wool and leather for clothing, blankets, bags implements, rugs, and tents; bones for carving; as means of transport for trade andagricultural production and nutrient recycling. They also serve as important asset for socio-economic (financial security) and cultural functions (status, dowry and religious festivals) besides serving as tourist attraction for trekking. They maintain commercial linkage between the nomads in high altitude and sedentary people at lower altitude. Yak plays an important role in the maintenance of agro-biodiversity in most fragile ecosystem through seed dispersion and manuring. Different byproducts from yak milk and meat are used for human own consumption as well as for religious offerings, and for procuring other essential items from the lower altitude habitat through barter system. There is huge demand for white tail as white tail is preferred for making holy chawar which is used in temples, gurudwaras (place of worship for Sikhs), and by business community for religious purpose. The yak products like milk and meat are the main source of protein requirement of the isolated highlanders who have little access to modern life. The milk yield in yaks ranged from 129-282 kg in a lactation length ranging from 120 days to 300 days, meat yield ranged between 70-190 kg, coarse hair yield ranged from 3.0 to 6 kg per year, fine hair ranged between 0.3-0.6 kg. The performance of hybrids of yak and cattle are superior, which are preferred by farmers. A. Soci-economic aspects: In Arunachal Pradesh, Monpa, a monoloid Buddhist tribe is the only tribe rearing yaks. Buddhist tribes as well as Muslim nomads raise yaks in Ladakh region. It was observed that in Sikkim Aho, Bho and Bhutia tribes (mostly Buddhists) raise yaks while in Himachal Pradesh they are raised by Buddhist tribes in Spiti and Hindu tribes in Kinnur and Chamba districts. Overthe years these tribes developed traditional breeding, feeding, managemental and healthcare technologies for yak rearing which is integral part of the present day traditional yak rearing. Herding of small number of yaks is not economically viable and the owners usually offer yaks to tenant herders called as ‘Brokpa’. B. Traditional Management Practices: Yaks are reared under free-range system in the hills where the air, water and pasture are free from any pollution, and their produce (milk, meat, hair) are organic and just natural. In India, yaks are reared under semi migratory (transhumance) free range system. Yak keepers move their animals in a predetermined known route which is determined by the locals based on traditional knowledge. Due to interrelated constraints of high altitude yak rearing is a special zero input production system characterized with extensive management, lower efficiency and longer production cycle. However, for highlanders in remote terrain, yak is the only source of sustainable livelihood due to non-availability of arable land for major agriculture. Anatomical features of yaks viz., spacious thorax with large heart and lungs, and ability to survive on lesser oxygen has enabled this large beast to subsist and even produce at high altitude mountains, where other bovines cannot sustain. They utilize small blades of grasses on high altitude pastures and also travel long distances in snowbound areas. C. Seasonal migration and grazing pattern: Traditional yak husbandry system involves migration in search of better pasture. In India and other neighbouring countries like Nepal and Bhutan, the farmers practice two-pasture utilization strategy. During summer, yaks are taken to high altitude alpine pasture (4,500 m and above). In winter, they return to pockets nearer to their villages located at mid altitude (3000m above msl). Grazing in summer pasture is from May to September while in December to February, winter pastures are utilized; the rest of the period is spent on transit from winter pasture to summer pasture.
Yaks: A Closer Look
Yaks, scientifically known as Bos grunniens, are large, shaggy-haired mammals adapted to living in the challenging environments of the high mountains. Their thick, insulating fur, composed of long guard hairs and soft inner wool, protects them from the harsh cold and relentless winds. Their distinctive appearance, characterized by long, curved horns and a hump on their shoulders, makes them instantly recognizable.
Tangible Heritage : Every year Mustang hosts the festival where people take blood from the neck of yak and drink it., As they graze jatamasi, panchaaunle and others medical herbs which can cure gastritis, acidity, jaundice, muscle sprain, body swelling and other diseases.
Intangible Heritage : Yak head or horn are carved with Tibetan paternoster and placed outside the prominent places like door of monasteries, Manidui, walls, bank of river and other places to drive out evil spirits.
Astrology Symbolism : Yak on zodiac sign represents stubborn determination and inertia. Hard work and dedication, steady, empathy and seeing thing “black and white” are the features of human who born under yak zodiac.
TRADITIONAL MANAGEMENT OF YAK
a. General Management · Care of calves and milking practices: Generally yak females are not milked for first one month after calving. During this time, calf takes all the available milk. Usually, during daytime, calves graze along with the dam and continue to suckle, in night, they are separated from dam and dams are milked in the early morning. At about 12 months of age, dam and calves are separated into different herds. Milking is done by stripping as the teats are small (2-4 cm) and funnel shaped.
· Shearing: Yaks produce two types of fibre: coarse outer hair and fine down fibre, which grows prior to the onset of winter as additional protection for the yak against cold. The down fibre of yak is like pashmina or mohair of goats. Thefibres are utilized by herders themselves for making tents, ropes, caps etc. in a traditional way.
· Castration: Castration of unselected bulls is a traditional practice to avoid breeding by inferior bulls.
b. Traditional Feeding Management In India, the yak keepers practice two-pasture utilization strategy. The summer pasture extends for about 190 days (May-October) and the winter pasture extends for about 138 to 150 days (November-April).Locally available alternative feed resources like tree fodder, agricultural by-products, coarse roughages are utilized for feeding of yaks during peak winter. The important locally available tree fodder species commonly fed to yaks are phrengpa (Quercus wallichiana), syluli (Acer campbellii), salyx (Salix humboldtiana), blemkar (Buddleja asiatica), domkar (Symplocos racemosa), maar (Castanopsis sp.), bagar (Berberis sp.), zimbu (Ligustrum myrsinitis) an karsingh (Acer hookeri). Most of these tree fodders are deciduous in nature.
C.Traditional Breeding Management Yaks are living in the harsh environment and unfriendly ecosystem, the natural selection has played a pivotal role in yak breeding. Traditionally, the yak herders are breeding their animals within their herds in isolated geographical boundaries. The pure breeding is the predominant practice. Under field conditions, yaks are seasonal breeders. The duration of breeding season and conception rate is mostly dependent on pasture availability and climatic conditions. The age at puberty among Indian yaks ranged 36-42 months under field conditions. The age at first service was 3 to 4 years in all the states and gestation period is about 258 days in yaks.
d. Traditional Yak Health Management The people living in the high altitude hilly regions have been utilizing these medicinal herbs for their ailments and sufferings. E.g. Nyan-thub (Thalictrum foliosum)- Roots used for treatment of inflammation and fever Ser-shing (Barbaris sp.)- Stem and flowers are traditionally used for treating conjunctivitis, sore mouth, infection of throat and larynx Ngur-mo (Drynaria sp.) – Roots are traditionally used for treatment of herb poisoning Wang-fu-lappa (Dactylorhiza hetegeria) – Roots are used for the treatment of infertility and impotence of reproductive tract. Shin-tu ug-med (Aconitum heterophyllum) – Used as antiseptic, antidote against snake and scorpion bite and treatment for infectious fever.
CHALLENGES OF YAK REARING Yak husbandry is facing lots of limiting issues relating to population dynamics, nutrition, genetics, health and value addition of products which are proposed to be addressed scientifically by this institute in collaboration with line departments. Unfortunately, Indian yak owners do not get good return from yak husbandry. For example tail hair (Chammer), bones, skull and horns are important products of yak – which may be a potential source of income. Yak husbandry is facing the challenges dueto transhumance system (migratory/pastoral) of farming on alpine pasture, paying grazing tax to community leader and degradation of the natural grasslands. To mitigate the issue and to enhance production potential of temperate grasses and legumes, seed production has been initiated at farm levels. Climate change is one of the biggest environmental threats affecting Yak. This has been already predicted that, average temperature will increase by 1.8 to 4 degrees Celsius by 2100. It would result in reduced crop yield by 20-40% in most of the Asian countries. Moreover, 20- 30% of species will be at risk of extinction. Due to climate change there will be emergence of trans-boundary and vector borne diseases and host-pathogen interaction will augment the emergence of unexpected events, including the emergence of new diseases and pests. The climate change may also affect the biomass availability and quality of high land pastures grazed by the yak.
Economic Treasure
- Milk and Dairy Products: Yaks are hailed for their milk, often referred to as “white gold.” Yak milk is a rich source of nutrition and a staple for many high-altitude communities. It serves as the foundation for producing various dairy products like butter, cheese, and yogurt. These dairy items are not only a source of sustenance but also valuable commodities for trade.
- Meat: Yak meat is another valuable resource. It is lean, high in protein, and is considered a delicacy in many Tibetan and Himalayan cuisines. The meat, dried into “chhurpi” or “drok,” serves as a nutritious snack, especially during the harsh winter months.
- Fiber: Yak wool, known as “khullu” or “yak down,” is a prized material for weaving warm, durable textiles. These fabrics are used for traditional clothing, blankets, and tents, and they are highly sought after for their exceptional warmth.
- Transport: Yaks are often referred to as the “ship of the mountains” for their role in transporting goods and people across rugged terrains. Their sturdy build and sure-footedness make them ideal for carrying heavy loads over steep, rocky paths.
- Manure: Yak dung, when dried, is a vital source of fuel in these remote regions. It provides a sustainable source of energy for heating, cooking, and even as construction material in the form of “yak dung bricks.”
Cultural Significance
Yaks are deeply interwoven into the cultural fabric of the communities inhabiting the high Himalayas and Tibetan plateau. These animals play a significant role in local traditions, festivals, and everyday life. They are featured prominently in art, folklore, and religious ceremonies. Yak festivals celebrate the importance of these animals in the livelihoods of these communities.
Yaks are not just livestock; they are revered and respected creatures. Their role in sustaining the unique lifestyle and traditions of these high-altitude regions cannot be overstated.
Environmental Conservation
Yaks contribute to environmental conservation in several ways:
- Grassland Management: Grazing yaks help maintain the grasslands of the Himalayan and Tibetan plateaus. By selectively consuming certain plant species and promoting new growth, they contribute to biodiversity and prevent overgrazing by other herbivores.
- Manure as Fertilizer: Yak dung, when used as fertilizer, enriches the soil, promoting crop growth in these challenging terrains. It serves as a sustainable way to enhance agricultural productivity without resorting to synthetic chemicals.
- Climate Resilience: Yaks are adapted to extreme cold and low-oxygen environments. Studying their physiology can provide insights into ways to improve livestock’s adaptability to climate change and challenging conditions.
Challenges and Conservation Efforts
Despite their significance, yaks face various challenges, including changing climate patterns, overgrazing, and diseases. There is a growing need to ensure the sustainability of yak populations and protect their ecosystems.
Conservation initiatives, including sustainable grazing practices, preserving grasslands, and implementing breeding programs to enhance genetic diversity, are vital for securing the future of these magnificent animals.
What is more valuable is that Yaks benefit human with their flesh and blood.
Milk is the yak’s first contribution for human. Female yaks can produce three to four jin of milk every day, which is three times as much as that the local cattle produce. Yak milk is thick and of rich nutrition. Herders drink milk every day. They drink milk after boiling it. They also make the milk into yogurt and slag refined oil and residue from the milk. Yak milk has a high fat content.5km of yellow butter can be refined from 50kg of yak mild. Tibetans rarely eat vegetables and fruits, but they eat butter tea and milk residue every day. They also use butter to light the lamp and to make Zanba.
Yak meat contains high protein. It tastes fresh and delicious. Especially in winter, it is a kind of nourishing food. If you go to Tibet, yak meat is the most delicious food that you should not miss. Flexible and smooth hair is used to make advanced textiles and Tibet wool. The yak’s tail hair can be used to make wigs and false mustache for opera performance. Yak leather is used to make Tibetan high boots and senior leather shoes which are of high quality. These shoes are quite popular with customers from all cities in China. Dried yak dung is the main fuel for herdsmen. They rely on it to keep warm, cook tea and cook meal. Even the bones which are grinded into powder are also very good for fertilizing the farmland.
CONCLUSION
Yaks are indeed the “treasure” and “ship” of the mountains, and their significance extends beyond the economic and practical aspects. They are an embodiment of resilience, adaptability, and cultural richness in the high-altitude regions of Asia. By recognizing and preserving the importance of yaks in these unique ecosystems, we can ensure that they continue to be a source of sustenance and cultural heritage for generations to come.
Yak is the most ecologically sustainable genetic resource of the Himalayas which provides livelihood support and nutritional security for highlanders; especially, the poor tribal farmers on remote hills. They are reared on pastoral system by the tribal people on high hills where no other livestock husbandry or crop production is possible. The yaks can sustain severe cold (up to –50°C) and can travel comfortably on snow bound steep hills and hypoxic conditions. They are multipurpose animal which provide milk, meat, fibre, dung and are also useful for transportation of household goods. Thus, livelihoods of rearers are solely dependent on yaks. Traditionally, the yaks are reared under free-ranged system in the high hills where the air, water, and pasture are free from any pollution, and their products are organic and just natural. Thus, yak husbandry has lots of untapped opportunities and can be improved by collective efforts for scientific intervention, developmental activities of line departments and business entrepreneurs having immense role to play to uplift the economy of yak herdsmen in our country. Yaks are indeed the “treasure” and “ship” of the mountains, and their significance extends beyond the economic and practical aspects. They are an embodiment of resilience, adaptability, and cultural richness in the high-altitude regions of Asia. By recognizing and preserving the importance of yaks in these unique ecosystems, we can ensure that they continue to be a source of sustenance and cultural heritage for generations to come.
Compiled & Shared by- This paper is a compilation of groupwork provided by the
Team, LITD (Livestock Institute of Training & Development)
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Reference-On Request.
