Natural densities

In natural grazing, grazers stay outdoors year-round. The number of animals is aligned with what nature can provide. The amount of food available during the lean season, winter, determines how many animals can survive. By adhering to this principle, rich and varied landscapes are created.

During the summer, nature grows and blooms abundantly. There is an overproduction of plant material, far more than the grazers can consume. This is a time of luxury for the animals. They focus on the most nutritious and protein-rich crops. The tenderest grasses are eaten while less palatable flowers and herbs remain. These bloom and attract many insects, which in turn become a food source for birds. As summer and fall progress, the plants produce seeds that benefit many mice and birds.

Gradually, the seasons change. Summer turns to fall and then winter. The grass stops growing, and the time of abundance for the grazers ends. They now have to eat less palatable plants. This is the moment the grazers truly shape the landscape. Trees and shrubs are skilfully pruned, transforming the landscape into a rich mosaic.

There are many forms of grazing and pasturing. Many farmers prefer to herd livestock in summer. Because farmers usually have a production goal, they tend to herd more animals, causing flowers and herbs to be consumed before they can produce nectar and seeds. In winter, farmers shelter their animals indoors. Consequently, there is no grazing, and trees and shrubs aren’t pruned, failing to bring any significant structural change to the landscape and its vegetation.