Yak and Chauri herds moved to lower altitudes as winter sets in

Tehrathum, November 8 High-altitude pastures in the Himalayan region are gradually becoming deserted as yak and chauri herds are moved to lower elevations with the onset of colder weather. Meanwhile, activity is picking up in the lower-altitude areas bordering Tehrathum, Sankhuwasabha and Taplejung, where herders are arriving with their livestock.

To escape the cold, farmers have moved their yak and chauri sheds from Nun Dhaki and the upper areas of Madi in Sankhuwasabha, as well as the upper regions of Shrijung and Morahang in Tehrathum, to lower elevations. The high-altitude pastures around Milke, Jaljale and Tokpegola, which until a few months ago echoed with the bells of yaks and chauris and the calls of herders, are now gradually emptying.

As snowfall begins in the high Himalayan region, grazing becomes difficult for the animals. Water sources freeze, cold winds blow and nighttime temperatures drop to around zero degrees Celsius, making it difficult for both livestock and herders to remain there.