In a centuries-old tradition blending practicality and natural harmony, herdsmen in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region have embarked on their annual livestock migration to winter pastures. The coordinated movement, initiated on September 1 by Habahe County authorities, involves 200,000 animals from five towns traversing mountainous routes near Altay's iconic Kanas Lake and Baihaba National Forest Park.
Local officials organized the staggered migration to allow summer grazing lands time to recover, demonstrating a balance between agricultural needs and ecological preservation. As hooves kick up golden dust clouds against backdrops of turquoise lakes and evergreen forests, the spectacle offers a vivid snapshot of pastoral life in one of Asia's most geographically diverse regions.
This seasonal practice holds significance beyond its visual grandeur. For business analysts, it highlights Xinjiang's substantial livestock industry contributing to China's agricultural exports. Cultural researchers note preserved traditions among ethnic groups, while sustainable development advocates point to modernized herd management strategies protecting fragile ecosystems.
