Abstract
ABSTRACT The Banni area in Kutch region of western India is a typical salt desert area. The usual methods of farming and husbandry are not successful here. The local farming community has developed a unique system of raising buffalo for Banni breed animals that is cost effective which is low cost, climate -smart and sustainable. The livestock production system has evolved over generations and incorporates scientific considerations. The behavior of 55 Banni buffaloes was observed with a thermal imaging device and interpreted based on farmers’ experiences. The nighttime behavior of these buffalo is unique. The animals were trained to follow the “leader-follower” hierarchy when moving around the pasture. The night grazing movements of the herd are controlled by the “leader buffaloes” without herders. The animals walk back and forth during the night along a known path. Concentrate feed mixed with jaggery, water and motherly instinct seem to be the main motivators for the buffalo to return from grazing – a type of Pavlovian conditioning behavior. The present study provides an alternative approach for developing simple, cost effective, welfare-oriented strategies for management using the behavioral aspects of animals.
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