Teni Hill Cattle: An Ethno-Cultural and Ecological Investigation in the Western Ghats

Abstract

Theni hill cattle are an important indigenous cattle breed reared in the Western Ghats region. They are predominantly found in areas such as Bodinayakanur, Uthamapalayam, Cumbum, Gudalur, Chinnamanur, and Meghamalai. These cattle play a significant role in the socio-economic and cultural life of the region. To distinguish cattle belonging to different herds, identifying marks are made on their faces. Theni hill cattle are traditionally reared under a free-grazing herd system. This study examines the indigenous knowledge systems of herders involved in Theni hill cattle rearing, with particular focus on mountain camping practices, traditional veterinary methods, herd management techniques, ecological adaptations, and the informal trust-based economic arrangements that sustain this pastoral system.