The people of Mongolia have lived nomadically for centuries, coexisting and adapting to the environment that surrounds them. When a group of people live nomadically, it means they move in cycles to specific locations for better grazing and food supply.
Herders that move this way follow seasonal patterns and vegetation growth that will best serve their livestock and families. About 30% of the population in Mongolia live as herders.
Many of these herders care for animals such as goats, sheep, yaks, oxen, camels, and even reindeer! Sheep are an important livestock as they provide wool for felt fabric, which is used in blankets, shelter, and clothing.
The Mongolian herders live in a traditional home called a “Ger.”
These dwellings are made of a timber skeleton, lined with a thick felt covering that provides a strong shelter. The homes are strategically lightweight so they can be transported easily. The Gers can also withstand the strong winds of the Mongolian steppe and take as little as three hours to build!
A Mongolian herder may wear beautifully crafted, traditional clothing. These clothes have great cultural significance and are also specifically designed for Mongolia’s climate. The clothing is typically made of felt to provide protection and warmth. The traditional outer layer is known as a deel and is still worn today. It includes an outer layer of silk or cotton with a warm inner layer such as fur.
Climate deeply impacts herders. They must adapt to changing temperatures while also protecting their way of life.
Animals are also great assets to the nomadic way of life. Herders will often train dogs to protect their flocks from wolves, and horses help people move their homes and other livestock quickly.
The Mongolian herders retain knowledge and expertise about their resilient way of life. This knowledge has been passed down through generations.
Using the wisdom of their elders, the Mongolian herders have adapted conservation techniques to care for the land. Scientists even rely upon their expertise in studies and conservation efforts. This is done through what is called “participatory problem analysis,” which just means they listen to the people connected with the land and find solutions to problems through the community. The herders also protect their areas from poachers who may seek to illegally capture falcons or indigenous plants.
The herders of Mongolia balance their traditional way of life with adaptability and resilience. This helps them take care of the land around them and all the plants and animals that they rely on.