The historical and natural-climate determinants of nomadic Kyrgyz sheep husbandry

This article examines the causal relationship between the nomadic lifestyle of the Kyrgyz people and their primary economic activity - sheep husbandry. The predominance of sheep breeding in Kyrgyz livelihoods was determined by natural-climatic and geographical factors. The Kyrgyz nomadic range encompassed vast expanses of low-grass mountainous and high-altitude pastures with rich vegetation. This diverse, ecologically pure, and vitamin-rich forage played a crucial role in shaping the nutritional qualities of mutton. The study concludes that sheep, as the primary source of sustenance for the Kyrgyz since ancient times, ensured their health and survival in the harsh conditions of nomadic existence. Furthermore, the selection of sheep husbandry as the foundation of Kyrgyz economic activity was influenced by the physical and physiological characteristics of sheep. These animals are resilient, highly mobile, and well-adapted to various environmental conditions. As even-toed ungulates, sheep possess the ability to traverse and remain stable on mountainous slopes.