In the southeastern provinces of Turkey, livestock breeders are heading to the plateaus to better feed their animals as the weather begins to warm up. During the summer, breeders stay in the plateaus and make a living by selling yogurt, butter, and cheese made from the milk they obtain from the animals. One of the nomads, Şahin Sezgin, stated that the plateau journeys, starting from Mardin and ending in Erzurum, are continuing. Some breeders walk to the plateaus with their animals, while others reach the plateaus by vehicle. They will spend a few months here and return to their hometowns when the weather gets colder.
These breeders rely on the income generated from selling dairy products made from the milk obtained from their animals on the plateaus. This traditional way of living has been passed down through generations and continues to sustain their families. The journey to the plateaus is a seasonal tradition that is deeply ingrained in the culture of these livestock breeders. By spending time in the plateaus during the summer months, they can provide better nutrition for their animals and ensure a steady source of income for their families.
The plateau journeys are a mix of hardship and reward for these breeders. Some choose to trek to the plateaus with their animals, while others opt to travel by vehicle. Şahin Sezgin mentioned how they will spend a few months on the plateaus before returning home as the weather cools down. This annual migration to the plateaus is a crucial part of their way of life, providing both sustenance for their animals and a livelihood for their families. It is a tradition that is deeply rooted in their culture and is a way for them to carry on their ancestors’ legacy.
The breeders work hard to ensure that their animals are well-fed and cared for during their time on the plateaus. This dedication to their livestock is evident in the quality of dairy products they are able to produce and sell. The income generated from these products allows them to support their families and maintain their way of life. As the summer progresses and the weather warms up, these breeders will continue to make the journey to the plateaus to provide for their animals and ensure a successful season ahead.
The bond between the breeders and their animals is a central aspect of this traditional way of life. The livestock breeders take great pride in caring for their animals and ensuring that they are healthy and well-fed. This connection to their animals is reflected in the high-quality dairy products they are able to produce on the plateaus. By selling these products, they are able to sustain their families and carry on the tradition of plateau living. As the summer season unfolds, these breeders will continue to make the journey to the plateaus, further strengthening the bond between themselves, their animals, and their way of life.
