How are livestock managed among enset farmers?
There are common themes in the management of livestock among the peoples who cultivate enset, although regional and ethnic differences occur. Differences in management practice may be found in the different ecological zones: dega (highlands), weinadega (mid elevation), and kolla (lowlands). There is also variation according to wealth category, with the wealthier households possessing more livestock and requiring greater access to additional labor and grazing lands. The management of livestock involves both taking animals to pasture and bringing forage to livestock. Individuals with one or two cattle will normally tether their animals in the grassy area in the front or side of the homestead. Those with more livestock will both tether their animals near the house and take their animals to common grazing areas, if they are available. In many villages, swampy or steep areas are set aside for common grazing (“the commons”). Those who are wealthy utilize the methods previously mentioned, but
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