#Winter Diet for Dairy Animals

[umangharyana]

सर्दी में पशुओं की देखभाल कैसे करें: दूध उत्पादन बढ़ाने और पशुओं को स्वस्थ रखने के बेहतरीन टिप्स

सर्दियों के मौसम में पशुपालन करने वाले लोगों को कई चुनौतियों का सामना करना पड़ता है। ठंड का सीधा असर न केवल पशुओं के स्वास्थ्य पर पड़ता है, बल्कि उनके दूध उत्पादन में भी गिरावट आ सकती है। ऐसे में पशुपालकों को अपने पशुओं की विशेष देखभाल करनी चाहिए। आज हम आपको बताएंगे कि सर्दी में पशुओं को ठंड से कैसे बचाएं और उनके दूध उत्पादन को कैसे बनाए रखें। पशुओं को खुले में न बांधें सर्दियों में ठंडी हवा और…

[serpentface]

A kulustaig bull, the distinctive cattle landrace of the highlands.

Kulustaig have striking differences to other native cattle found across the Imperial Wardi claimed territory. Their aurochs ancestors were domesticated in a separate event from those found south of the Inner Seaways, and the broader cattle population kulustaig derived from may have trace bison genetics. The progenitors of this landrace were brought south across the Viper seaway by the ancestors of the contemporary Hill Tribes, and were gradually shaped into the kulustaig in adaption to the high altitudes, mild but dry summers, and cool/snowy wet seasons.

These cattle are mid-sized and stocky in build with large, broad faces, most distinguished by curly manes and 'beards' and thick, V-shaped horns. Genetically undiluted kulustaig are almost ubiquitously black, white, and/or gray, though breeding with other cattle has introduced a greater variety of coloration in contemporary stocks.

They are adapted to higher altitudes, having larger hearts and a bigger lung capacity than comparable lowland breeds, and grow thick, curly winter coats that allow for superior resistance to seasonally cooler temperatures. They can maintain condition on less food and lower-nutrition grasses than the average cattle, and are excellent instinctive foragers. This particular quality makes them attractive for crossbreeding efforts with cattle stock of the dry scrublands in the south of Imperial Wardin, though most of their other traits are highly unfavorable for hot, low altitude environments, and scrub-kulustaig hybrids with idealized traits are rare (and highly sought after as studs).

These are all-purpose cattle that can adequately fulfill roles as meat, draft, and dairy animals, though the latter role has the most importance in day to day life, and they show the most selection for milk production (though are not as high-yield as pure dairy breeds). Their meat is mostly lean and somewhat gamey, as they rely more on thick winter coats than fat stores to manage cold, and the vast majority subsist entirely on wild grasses and forage.

Most kulustaig have fairly calm, gentle temperaments, and accommodate well to human handling (it is not uncommon for cows and geldings to be passively ridden by herders otherwise traveling on foot). Their herds have strong, well defined, and stable dominance hierarchy structures, which reduces actual fighting and lends to them being more easily managed by their human herders. In most traditions, the dominant female in each herd is regarded as blessed by and belonging to the agricultural goddess Od, and will not be milked or slaughtered (this untouchable status is often maintained even if the cow's rank in the hierarchy is displaced, though traditions vary).

Bulls are almost ubiquitously given personal names by their owners (the honor often belonging to a family or clan's matriarch, who is generally considered the owner of the herd and other familial assets), while other traditions vary between just the bulls and dominant cows, personal favorites, or entire herds receiving names.

These cattle are of tremendous importance to the peoples of the highlands (particularly tribes and/or individual clans living above the river valleys, who fundamentally rely upon them for subsistence). They provide much of the meat and dairy that the core diet revolves around, and are the greatest measure of wealth within the highlands. Non-native cattle can be commonly found in parts of the highlands in the contemporary (and may be bred in to impart unique qualities to established stock, such as improved milk production or fattier meat), but kulustaig are typically prized above all the rest. These cattle are often a source of great pride for individual clans, and one of few agreed upon markers of shared identity and pride for all of the collective Hill Tribes.

Cattle raiding is a near-ubiquitous practice (both as a practical resource acquisition, and a less immediately lethal method of settling larger disputes than open warfare), and most cattle will be branded with a mark identifying their owning clan as a method of dissuading theft (often futile, particularly given cattle marked as belonging to certain wealthy clans may be especially prized). Nose rings are commonly used to assist in the handling of bulls, but have secondary protective functions that lend to their common use in even the most docile of cattle. Rings are usually blessed or have spells woven into their making as a supernatural barrier against theft, or against malicious (or at least devious) mountain spirits such as tiirgranul (who take pleasure in frightening cattle (and their herders) and are known to cause stampedes) or wildfolk (who are known to sometimes steal or curse cattle when offended, or just bored).

The word kulustaig derives from the common word 'taig'/'taigr', which refers to cattle in the contemporary languages of both the Hill Tribes and Finns, and the 'kul' root (heavily antiquated and not used in contemporary speech, most commonly recognizable in the name of the kulys plant), which has connotations of hardiness/robust qualities. The name would have derived from complimentary descriptions of the animals as 'the best and most robust of cattle'.

[whencyclopedia]

The Nerge: Hunting in the Mongol Empire

The peoples of the Mongol Empire (1206-1368 CE) were nomadic, and they relied on hunting wild game as a valuable source of protein. The Asian steppe is a desolate, windy, and often bitterly cold environment, but for those Mongols with sufficient skills at riding and simultaneously using a bow, there were wild animals to be caught to supplement their largely dairy-based diet. Over time, hunting and falconry became important cultural activities and great hunts were organised whenever there were major clan gatherings and important celebrations. These hunts involved all of the tribe mobilising across vast areas of steppe to corner game into a specific area, a technique known as the nerge. The skills and strategies used during the nerge were often repeated with great success by Mongol cavalry on the battlefield across Asia and in Eastern Europe.

Hunted Animals

The Mongols, like other nomadic peoples of the Asian steppe, relied on milk from their livestock for food and drink, making cheese, yoghurt, dried curds and fermented drinks. The animals they herded - sheep, goats, oxen, camels and yaks - were generally too precious as a regular source of wool and milk to kill for meat and so protein was acquired through hunting, essentially any wild animal that moved. Animals hunted in the medieval period included hares, deer, antelopes, wild boars, wild oxen, marmots, wolves, foxes, rabbits, wild asses, Siberian tigers, lions, and many wild birds, including swans and cranes (using snares and falconry). Meat was especially in demand when great feasts were held to celebrate tribal occasions and political events such as the election of a new khan or Mongol ruler.

A basic division of labour was that women did the cooking and men did the hunting. Meat was typically boiled and more rarely roasted and then added to soups and stews. Dried meat (si'usun) was an especially useful staple for travellers and roaming Mongol warriors. In the harsh steppe environment, nothing was wasted and even the marrow of animal bones was eaten with the leftovers then boiled in a broth to which curd or millet was added. Animal sinews were used in tools and fat was used to waterproof items like tents and saddles.

The Mongols considered eating certain parts of those wild animals which were thought to have potent spirits such as wolves and even marmots a help with certain ailments. Bear paws, for example, were thought to help increase one's resistance to cold temperatures. Such concoctions as powdered tiger bone dissolved in liquor, which is attributed all sorts of benefits for the body, is still a popular medicinal drink today in parts of East Asia.

Besides food and medicine, game animals were also a source of material for clothing. A bit of wolf or snow leopard fur trim to an ordinary robe indicated the wearer was a member of the tribal elite. Fur-lined jackets, trousers, and boots were a welcome insulator against the bitter steppe winters, too.

Continue reading...

[ahhvernin]

I'm watching the new season of Beastars. This season the school is undergoing segregation and society is more divided. As someone who studied ecology and loves reading up the natural history of animals. And likes to dabble here and there among the nutritional science of things. I have a major thorn about the series I have to address. Even if its a work of fiction, the knowledge I have is making me pause episodes far too many times.

And the issue is....the separation of Herbivores and Carnivores, the drug KINES and their reaction to it.

Most animals, even if classified as Herbivores can become omnivorous if conditions and situations arise. I've seen squirrels eat birds. I've seen deer on a nice warm spring day snatch up a goslings without hesitation, I've seen rabbits nibbling on deer antlers.

Many Herbivores especially during the winter and early spring will eat what is available, that includes bones, antler sheds, and sometimes even carrion, if there's nothing else. So how can you have a dedicated herbivore and carnivore? Why are cranes, chickens and peacocks among the herbivore group? HAVE YOU SEEN A CHICKEN HUNT AND SWALLOW A MOUSE??? Cranes and herons eat other aquatic animals.

The series integrates insects, milk and eggs as part of the diet. The majority of carnivores, Omnivores, Insectivores and Herbivores partake in these things.

Insects, milk, eggs, all come from a living being, and are animal products, or in the case of insects, are still considered animal protein. Sharing similar nutrients, minerals, proteins, fats and amino acids.

Therefore...The portrayal of the drug KINES is a bit flawed as that most of the inhabitants of the series have consumed animal products or animal proteins. Louis brings a chemical analysis and points out actin and myosin, both proteins present in muscle and cell movement, this includes insects. Louis says the report comes in as "trace" amounts, which means not alot. But remember...society regularly consumes dairy, eggs and insects.

Deshico makes a mention about there are GST's, during his demonstration of KINES between a carnivores who does not eat fresh meat regularly vs a carnivore who does. GST's is whole family of enzymes with a multitude of functions, some involved in digestion and detoxification in the liver. They are present in all tissues and organs, this includes insects. And if we use humans as an example....even life time vegetarians and vegans still retain the ability to digest meat, because some of the protease enzymes that are present during digestion are generalists, like pepsin, meaning they could break down the kale you ate AND the chicken you ate. Even wilder....there are some plants that can digest meats. Ever wonder why fresh pineapple makes your mouth tingle? That's bromelain in the juice, it breaks down protein, its digesting your tongue! So that's that's it. I don't have enough biochemical knowledge to tell you what would make KINES more believable for me. But as it stands, I would expect more species becoming MORE feral/addicted to this drink if regular consumption of animal proteins is all it takes and this is more or less addressing a nutritional deficiency of some kind. And if so, the society in this show is just okay with having the land carnivores and omnivores to be in a perpetual state of mal-nutrition and deficiencies..

[subiysu-chan]

Dark Mythopia/Dark Fantasy ideas with European folklore and populations, from 1550 to 1850, with a "evil coast" type thing

A part that is:

-Cfb and Cfc, on steroids, with constant rain, mist and storms, as well as a rather cool climate, with summers rarely reaching above 15 degrees, and winters around 3-0 degrees. Close to the ocean. With that...I would go with Icelandic, Highlanders and irish populations, as well as some Romani and Irish traveller populations.

-Terrain would be compose of a steep cliff, some rocky beaches and coastal plains, mountains, a peninsula and a large, marshy lake.

Fantastical and paranormal creatures :

-The "dark elves"/Drow (semi-troglodyte, nocturnal elves), who would look like the classical high fantasy elves but winged, and this population would be extremely pale with black or white hair of any texture and wide eyes that could be any shade of blue, green, grey, pink, red or purple, with half having blue eyes, and purple being the rarest color. Males would have a shimmering, saturated eyecolor while females would have less saturated, more "human" looking colors, although in a slightly greater diversity of shades and undertones than humans. They would be very gracile, androgynous on human standards (male elves would have more narrow, elongated wings while their feminine counterparts would have round, semi-concave wings), and have quite large ears. Would live around 200 years. Here, would have four cultures: the Gneiss culture (in the mountain caves), the limestone culture (more coastal), the burrow culture and the siltstone culture.

-Bogards : ugly, scary gobblins, mostly living underground.

-Nucklavee : skinless cyclops centaurs creating rot whereever they go

-Ghost, revenants, and others

-Washerwoman ghost-fay

-Dragons. The local dragons play the role of A-pex predator, both on land and at sea.

-Kelpie

-Draugr

-Fay cats

-Mountain troll

-Merrow

-Marmennill

-Mulo (the "dead" one)

Vegetation :

-Salicorne

-Calledonian-style rainforest

-Psychopomp dogs

-Moors

-A large marshy lake

-Rocky beaches or cliffs covered by space grasses

-Because this is a very "dark", demonic-influenced place, the underground caverns and ocean floor would have "rané", a type of autotrophe that yes, produces oxygen, but blocks endorphins while provoquing a powerful stinging sensation in almost all higher vertebrates. The other would be the "dark lily", a type of plant which upon it's blossoming stage would strongly ressemble a water lily, but with dark grey or even black flowers with eleven petals. After being fertilized, it would mature into a very dark red fruit, that has the property of delivering a burning sensation while blocking all the body's natural "pain killers", as it feeds from the diluted spirits and dark energies of the Styx.

Rule: Objects may travel from one realm to the next, but not living humans or animals.

Now...How would these people interact with this environment.

So, at first, these people would probably establish a foothold onto moorlands for agriculture pretty easily, forming the first villages. Icelanders, Highlanders and Irish were pretty used to making agriculture in such climates. However, hostile mer populations would probably make fishing a less viable options. Like, having intelligent creatures wanting to tip your ship would make fishing difficult. However, maybe trade with the local "Silt culture" who already practice aquaculture (algea, krill and oysters, together), might allow human populations to also develop their own version of it, which, over a single decade, might allow a beginning to population growth. Introduction of grazing livestock, especially in highlands, but also pig farming, would also help them with food production. So, a diet of oats, barley, rutapagas, rye, kelp, oysters, cabbage, onion, turnips, dairy and meat would be the main staples. Near lake, they might attempt to farm goose, if the local fairies and kelpies would allow.

Over the first 50 years, the first villages would be established, but it may or may not yet support cities.

The abundonce of undead might lead to the increase demand for the skills of those who practice spiritism. Some romani tabars might be able to establish an economic niche here, although the more European population might also occupy these economic niches. Professional draugr and vampire hunters would become essencial, perhaps forming full-time professional.

However, by 1630, the first cities might begin to form. One of them on mountains, culturally Icelandic, one culturally Irish near the shore, and another mid-land one of Highlander scottish culture, surrounded by many villages. It may or may not develop a gentry.

[irithnova]

how strong is mongolia's spice tolerance?

...Honestly not very good LMAO. Mongolian food is nice but it's not traditionally spicy at all. The seasonings Mongols traditionally use are more simple (sometimes just salt) and Mongolian cuisine in general is a bit simpler compared to others.

Mongolia's traditional food heritage, revolves around a diet focused on meat and dairy. This diet, essential for surviving severe winters/weather conditions, emphasizes simplicity in dishes and cooking techniques. Quick preparation is key, considering the long days spent tending to animals, ensuring meals are ready without prolonged waits after exhausting outdoor work. In addition, considering the nomadic nature of the traditional Mongolian lifestyle and the climate, it's pretty hard to grow spices, hence why Mongolian cuisine is traditionally not spiceful (this doesn't mean it's bad though) but also why Mongolia is not exactly someone with a good spice tolerance.

You'd think the Yuan would have opened him up to more spices considering how the Mongols utilised the Silk Road/trade and the fact that the Yuan was essentially Mongolia ruling over China but:

1) The Mongols adamantly stuck to eating their own diet rather than Chinese, despite ruling over China

2) You know when you go to a restaurant and the "spicy" option isn't actually spicy but adjusted for people who aren't used to spice? That's probably the level of spice Mongolia ate most of the time when he tried out foreign cuisines (you probably wouldn't want to piss him off by giving him something actually pretty spicy during that era)

I think he's gotten better at spices now but still, it's not amazing. He probably needs a gallon of milk in hand whenever he eats at India's place LOL

[pokemonbiologyirlthetabletop]

Nickit & Thievul

Nickit (#827)

Vulpes astutes

General Information: Nickit the Fox Pokémon. They are a cunning thief who enjoy stealing from others rather than, say, bothering to go find their own food. They can move silently thanks to their soft paw pads, and their tails hide their tracks by sweeping the imprints away.

Nickit average at 2 feet (0.6 M) tall and weigh about 20 pounds (9 kg).

Habitat: Nickit are found throughout most of Europe and parts of western Asia, specifically the region between the Ural Mountains and the Pyrenees Mountain—these mountains create a natural boundary for them that separates them from the natural territory of other fox Pokémon. Their habitat extends south into the Arabian Peninsula, but there it slowly transitions into Fennekin territory.

Nickits have been introduced into Australia and are an invasive species.

Life Cycles: Nickits are born in the spring to litters of 4-6 kits, but some litters have been recorded to have as many as 13 individuals! For the first 2 weeks of their life, the baby Nickits are blind, deaf, toothless, helpless and completely dependent on their extremely protective mothers (and fathers). Should their mother die before they are independent, their father will take over providing for them—though, to be clear, their father almost certainly had been spending his time making sure their mother was being provided for, instead of fucking off to who-knows-where. At 3-4 weeks old, kits begin the gradual process of weaning by testing out new foods, and will continue to drink their mother’s milk until around 6-7 weeks of age. Kits are able to move out of their mother’s den at around 5 months old.

In theory, a Nickit can begin reproduction at level 15 or 1 year of age (whichever comes last), but social pressures from their family group keep them from reproducing until they’ve evolved into Thievul.

Behavior: Nickits are cunning and clever creatures. They are also social animals that work together, often in sibling groups. They love stealing their food and are terrible hunters, and they bare a rivalry with Purrloins (who are exotic to the Old World). Despite beliefs to the contrary, Nickits are deeply loyal to their family groups.

Diet: Carnivore-leaning omnivores. They’ll eat most things but prefer animal-based substances like meat, dairy, and eggs.

Conservation: Threatened

Relationship with Humans: Nickits are notorious thieves in European folklore. They are seen as sly, cunning, clever, and untrustworthy, and have such a bad reputation that even the Pokémon League Foundation generally doesn’t recommend them as starter Pokémon because of the “poor influence” they would have on a new trainer.

They have adapted well to urban environments and Nickits can be found in just about any European town or city, whether you see them or not.

Classification: Nickits are in the same genus as the Vulpix line, Vulpes. Their species epithet, “astutes” refers to their cleverness.

Thievul (#828)

Vulpes trichopulchellus

General Information: Thievul, the evolved form of Nickit, and London’s infamous canid capers! These clever fiends are excellent thieves who will secretly mark their target with a scent marker, which they’ll later track down to their home and steal their food and eggs when they’re off-guard. Breeders beware!

Thievuls average at 3’11 feet (1.2 M) tall and weigh about 44 pounds (20 kg).

Habitat: Thievuls are native to the region of Europe and Asia between the Pyrenees and Ural Mountains, with periodic family groups that make their way closer to the Arabian Peninsula. They are quite prolific in urban environments.

Life Cycles: Thievuls may live with their birth pack for several years until they’re ready to take on their own territory. Siblings will often venture out together, find mates together, and birth their own family units together. When it is finally time to mate, courtship begins in the middle of winter and will last for about 3 weeks. From there, the female will gestate her eggs for about 2 months. Seasonal monogamy is generally accepted. Both parents will do their part in raising their kits, and in fact the entire pack will share in the raising of kits in their own way, such as how the “subordinate” females and the fathers will help feed the mothers who have kitted.

Thievuls do not hunt prey but do steal eggs to an obnoxious and notorious degree. In this world, farmers don’t hate Thievuls (foxes) for stealing chickens, they hate them for stealing the eggs of their livestock Pokémon. They are not terribly picky about their eggs, but do tend to avoid ones that require traversing extreme temperatures or other extreme obstacles—there are easier meals, after all. In their natural habitats, their egg stealing is widely known and native species are used to their wily ways and are expecting it, but in places like Australia where they were introduced to keep Bunnelby populations at bay by stealing their eggs in their burrows (the author of this report does not claim that European Colonizers are intelligent), this backfired tremendously and now Thievuls are running rampant across the continent stealing eggs and food while the native inhabitants struggle to prepare themselves for this new threat.

Behavior: Thievuls live in family units with loose hierarchies where dominant members of the group (often the parents) will mate while the subordinate members (often the children of past litters) will not. They den inside hills, slopes, tree roots, gutters, clefts, or even abandoned human dwellings.

They experience a great hatred of Boltunds (because Boltunds have historically been used to hunt them) and are arch-rivals with Liepards.

Diet: Carnivore-leaning omnivores. They can eat most things but prefer meat, eggs, and dairy products. Especially eggs, in fact they love eggs. Thievuls are superb egg thieves and are the primary egg thieves wherever they live, which is the biggest reason why they are invasive in Australia.

Conservation: Threatened (but Invasive in Australia)

Relationship with Humans: Thievuls are hated by much of the ecosystem, from humans to Pokémon alike. Humans hate them for the fact that they steal their food, and Pokémon hate them because Thievuls steal their eggs. Boltunds have been used for centuries to hunt down and kill Thievuls for sport, and a natural mutual hatred for each other have emerged.

In media, if someone needs to be a burglar, Thievuls (and Liepards) are the two go-to stereotypical burglar Pokémon.

Classification: Thievul’s species epithet, “trichopulchellus” means “fancy hair,” in reference to its moustache.

Evolution: Thievul evolves from Nickit at level 18.

~~~~~~~~

Hey guess what, if you like my stuff, this is my website where you can find other Pokémon I've written on and more information about the game that I’m slowly making! Check it out! I write books sometimes too.

[plantbasedrebel]

What is a Plant-Based diet?

This blog is about my journey and experiences cooking and eating healthy food with my family.

I’m a passionate cook and I aim to take the mystery out of what a plant based diet means. If you are interested I'd like to show you how to do it too.

The Plant Based diet is made up of a variety of grains such as oats, barley, quinoa, bulgar wheat, buckwheat, and rice, legumes such as peas, beans, and lentils, vegetables, fruit, dairy-free versions of milk, cheese and yoghurt, pasta, bread, nuts, seeds and much more. 

I would also like to mention the benefits I have experienced are a noticeable increase in energy levels and all round well-being since committing to eating this way. *Please enter a little disclaimer here about how I can't promise everyone will feel this way.

We simply need to know what to look out for and where, plan ahead and ensure we are reaching our nutritional needs. This goes for any food based plan we follow. It doesn't take long to source all your favourite ingredients based on price, availability and personal choices. We are creatures of habit and usually settle on a series of dishes we enjoy that may vary throughout the seasons. I think of soups and stews more in the winter and lighter meals in the summer. It would be interesting for you to take a look in your kitchen cupboards and fridge right now to see what kind of variety you are currently eating. 

The foods that I choose not to consume are ones that are made from or contain animal products. The "why" is not very important here as I feel everyone will have their own personal reasons for not consuming animal products. I focus on what we can eat instead of what we cannot.

[outofangband]

First Age Humans and Winter Headcanons

I did elves here

Autumn headcanons

Note: I used a more canon climate for Beleriand and other lands here but I'm always happy to make environmental or other world building posts for locations based on other places including specific real ones like I did for the Havens of Sirion!

I am late with these of course:/ I have to start on spring ones soon

I talked about New Years traditions here

As always it’s impossible to cover every culture, location or topic so please feel free to ask more!

Note: The Númenórean calendar begins in midwinter however it’s implied that the months used or at least a similar set were used by humans in the first age as several birthdays in the Narn are given in those months. I headcanon that the calendar in the first age was somewhat less standardized with seasonal markings differing between cultures

With the exception of the Haladin, the Edain of Beleriand celebrate new year in the winter. The Hadorians celebrate in midwinter and the Bëorians in late winter. The Haladin mark the start of winter when they must pen the pigs they keep. Spring starts when the pigs can be let out once more to forage.

Winters in Dorthonion tend to be cold with little snowfall sticking outside the forests. Bëorian children wear colorful knitted hats and mittens. It’s considered good luck to have matching colors for children (adults more commonly wear different colors) The wool is made from alpaca fur. Boots are lined with fur from rabbit.

The Hadorians maintain an especially careful watch over their horses in the winter. The severity of a winter is often judged by the health of their horses and the ease in which they can be cared for.

The Haladin and the Hadorians use leather and wool for warmth. Wool is one of the few imports to Brethil though there are small communities of sheep farmers outside the forest near the Talath Dirnen

All three groups rely heavily upon stored food during winters; dried meat, root vegetables, hard loaves, etc. Only the Hadorians commonly have dairy through the winter (though they are also the only group that includes it regularly in their diet throughout the year anyways). Fresh meat is available through hunting sometimes.

East of the Ered Luin winters are more varied in climate with some areas receiving heavy snowfall and others simply having a rainy season, cooler weather, or little changes at all. Thus, some of the human cultures like the elven ones there mark the winter as the start of a rainy season and the lead up involves preparing for an excess of water and preventing against flooding and dangers along the rivers. The people of whom Ulfang came from for example move their animals and stores away from the rivers during winter.

The Hadorians make hard cider from apples grown in Mithrim. This is usually served hot and is a favorite winter drink. The Haladin also have a variety of ciders from orchards southwest of the river Teglin.

Communal halls are built in Dor-lómin and in areas around Brethil where fires are maintained and torches and lanterns line the walls. These provide light and warmth for travelers as well as those who do not have resources in their own homes. The lord of Dor-lómin and the chieftain of the Haladin respectively are responsible for what occurs in these halls.

Dorthonion and Hithlum have hot springs that include those accessible to elves and humans. Especially in Dor-lómin where springs can be found both around the caves of Androth and the Ered Wethrin in the southeast corners, these are a popular winter destination. Though some of the humans have somewhat stricter rules on nudity than the elves, at these pools, public and communal nudity is common and accepted. In Dorthonion, the springs are typically visited for medicinal purposes. In Hithlum they are more for enjoyment and relaxation

[ideas-on-paper]

Celtic seasonal festivals - Part 2: Beltane

Part 1 ; Part 3 ; Part 4

Hello, my dear folks! The 1st of May finally has arrived, and as promised, we will continue with our examination of ancient Celtic festivals and their modern counterparts. This time, we will take a closer look at Beltane, which is probably the most famous Celtic festival aside from Samhain - and, contrary to popular belief, involved way less sexy times than one might imagine.

General/Etymology

Beltane (or Beltaine) is one of the four Celtic seasonal/"fire" festivals, taking place on May 1st. Also known as Cétshamhain in some older sources (meaning "first of summer"), it marked the beginning of the bright season, when the steadily increasing light of the sun would finally burn the last remnants of the dark winter season away. Aside from Samhain, Beltane was the most significant festival of the Celtic calendar, with the two of them lying exactly six months apart.

However, just like the other threshold festivals, Beltane didn't mark the meteorological beginning of summer, but rather the date when herdsmen would drive out their cattle to the summer pastures. It was also the time when snow and frost would finally decline in the higher reaches, and it was common for farmers to lead their herds to fresh summer grazings atop hills or mountainsides. From this, we can conclude that animal husbandry most likely played an important part in Celtic economy, a theory which receives its staggering confirmation in the numerous Irish myths and legends featuring livestock.

For Celtic farmers, cows were both a source of income and their own livelihood - the Kerry cattle (depicted above), a now rare breed native to Ireland, is believed to be one of the oldest European cattle breeds as well as the first to be bred primarily for milk production (Source)

As proven by Táin Bó Cúailnge, one of the most famous Irish tales, cows were seen as a symbol for wealth and status, since they gave a variety of products such as leather, meat, milk, cheese, and butter. In particular, cows were appreciated for the dairy products they yielded, as milk and butter were an essential part of the people's diet. These qualities are reflected in Glas Gaibhnenn, a mythical cow of bounty and fertility which belonged to the hero Cian mac Cáinte, only for the precious animal to be stolen by his adversary Balor.

In regard to etymology, the most wide-spread theory is that Beltane is derived from the Proto-Celtic belo-te(p)niâ, composed of the prefix belo- meaning "white/bright/shining", and tene/teine, the word for "fire". Thus, Beltane can be translated as "bright fire" - a fitting name considering the numerous bonfire rites associated with it.

Ancient origins and customs

There are numerous references to Beltane and its rites in early Irish literature, suggesting that the festival was a very integral, ancient part of Irish culture. Some medieval sources even mention an Irish god named Bel/Beil, in whose honor so-called "Bel's fires" (possibly the origin of the word "balefire") would be lit on May 1st. This makes for some interesting parallels with the Gaulish deity Belenus, a Celtic healing god who is believed to be the namesake of Beltane. Furthermore, in some ancient depictions of Belenus, he seems to be accompanied by a female goddess, which some scholars have identified as Belisama. Although these two deities share the same etymological root, their religious function is largely unclear. Due to the Roman identification with the sun god Apollo, Belenus was originally interpreted as a solar deity, his name being translated as "the bright/shining one"; consequentially, Belisama would mean "the very bright" (the suffix -isama denoting a superlative). However, different theories regarding the origin have also been proposed: It is suspected that belo- rather stems from the Gaulish word for "strong/powerful", while -nos was the term for "lord/master" - thus, Belenus and Belisama would translate to "Master of Power" and "the very powerful". A connection to the plant henbane (called belenuntia in ancient Gaul and known for its healing and hallucinogenic properties) and a derivation from the Indo-European root *gwelH- for "source"/"spring" have also been speculated. The Proto-Indo-European term *bʰleh₃ōs meaning "blossoming" seems like another possible option, although this does not seem to have been considered by scholars yet.

Viewed in the context of the few hints about Celtic religion that we do have, all of these interpretations seem valid: Symbolically, the sun not only stood for light and fire, but also the never-ending year cycle - as such, many solar deities also act as gods of nature and fertility. Another integral part of spiritual practices - especially during the threshold festivals - was divination, with henbane possibly being used during such rituals to put the oracle in ecstasy. Last but not least, bodies of water were believed to be the dwellings of gods and gateways to the Otherworld in ancient Celtic culture, so it's no surprise that Belenus and Belisama share various associations with water as well (also, as we learned in the article about Imbolc, fountains were believed to have healing properties as well, reaffirming Belenus' status as a healing god). Although we will most likely never know the exact ancient rituals of Beltane, we can put together the archaeological evidence, the accounts from medieval Irish authors, and surviving customs to get an idea what this celebration of fertility and new beginnings might have looked like.

Not much is known about Belenus and Belisama, but it is speculated they were a pair of ancient fertility deities (Source)

From the medieval Irish texts Sanas Cormaic and Tochmarc Emire, we learn part of the festival of Beltane was lighting two bonfires. On the eve of April 30th, the candles and hearth fires of all households would be extinguished; then, two druids would ascend to a mountain or hill, and ignite a fire by the means of friction between wood while chanting magic incantations. Afterwards, people would drive their cattle either past or between the two bonfires, occasionally also making it jump over the flames. This ritual was meant to cleanse away any harmful influences left over from winter, as well as protect their livestock against disease. Since it was believed to bring good luck, the people themselves would also run between or around the bonfires, with some especially brave jumping over the embers. In some regions, it was also considered important for the smoke to blow across the people and their cattle, since the ashes and smoke of the bonfire were also believed to have protective powers.

This custom is also attested in a source from the 17th century, where Geoffrey Keating claims that two bonfires were lit in every district of Ireland and livestock driven between them to ward off disease. Keating also describes a great gathering at the hill of Uisneach on May 1st, during which sacrifices to the god Beil were made. While is event is nowhere mentioned in the Irish annals, there is a legend recorded in the Dindsenchas of a hero lighting a fire at Uisneach which burned for seven years. These might be faint remnants of an annual Beltane tradition being held there, a theory which may be supported by archaeological evidence found in the 20th century: Due to traces of large fires and charred bones being excavated there, scholars assume that Uisneach was a sanctuary site since ancient times, acting as a place for animal sacrifices and hosting a perpetually burning fire.

These gatherings were usually accompanied by a feast, with food being cooked at the bonfire and some of it being offered to the aos sí, the spirits and fairies of Irish folklore (which are generally believed to have evolved from ancient nature gods). For example, in the Scottish Highlands, a lamb would be sacrificed, after which people would consume the remaining parts to figuratively feast alongside the gods. In Perthshire, another region of Scotland, a caudle consisting of eggs, butter, oatmeal and milk would be made, some of which was poured onto the ground as a libation to the spirits. Baking an oatmeal cake, called bannoch Bealltainn ("Beltane bannock") was also a common ritual, and after every of the guests had taken their own piece of it, they would offer bits of it to the spirits for protection of their livestock (one dedicated to the horses, another one for the sheep, etc.). Furthermore, the predators that might prey on their cattle also had to be appeased, and to show respect to them, each would be offered a small piece of the cake as well (one for the fox, one for the eagle, and so forth). Once all the pieces had been properly distributed, people would drink of the caudle that had been cooked over the fire.

Another ritual involving oatmeal cake is also documented: First, the cake would be cut into multiple slices, one of them being marked with charcoal. Then, all of them would be put into a bonnet (a traditional type of headdress) and each of the guest would pull out one while blindfolded. Whoever got the marked piece would have to leap through the flames three times, or the other attendees would pretend to throw them into the bonfire in a kind of mock ritual. Following the feast's conclusion, everyone would act like the "sacrificed" person was dead for a period of time. It has been suggested that this is a remnant of ancient human sacrifice (which we do know the Celts practiced) that morphed into more of a symbolic custom over the centuries.

Once the bonfire had died down, people would daub themselves in the ashes, as well as take some of it with them to sprinkle it over their crops and livestock. In addition, people would light torches at the bonfire and bring them home, carrying them around the borders of the farmstead and through their house to bless the place. Finally, the torches would be used to reignite all hearth fires - a ritual which most likely not only represented the changing of seasons, but also the waxing light of the sun, invoking a plentiful supply of sunlight for people, animals, and plants to grow.

Another Beltane custom typical of Ireland was the May Bush (also called May Bough), a small tree or branch decorated with various adornments. Usually, the bush would be hawthorn, rowan, holly, or sycamore, and thorn trees in particular were seen as special trees associated with the aos sí. (In fact, the tradition of decorating trees in springtime might be a remnant of ancient tree worship, a ritual meant to bestow the tree spirit's blessing onto each house and village.) On the morning of Beltane Eve, children or youths would go out into the countryside looking for a suitable bush, while also collecting brightly-colored wild flowers along the way. These flowers would then be used to decorate the bush for the festive occasion, in addition to ribbons, painted seashells, candles, and rushlights.

Sometimes, the tree would be decorated where it stood, while other times the youths would cut off branches from it to bring them home. (In Ireland, damaging a thorn/"fairy" tree was widely believed to bring great misfortune, so Beltane might have been the only occasion where it was actually allowed.) The May Bush branches would be fastened above doors and windows, to the roof or barns. Traditionally, the smaller branches would be decorated as well - a task which was normally the duty of the oldest household member - and would remain up until May 31st.

In cities such as Dublin and Belfast, May Bushes from the countryside would be brought into town and decorated by the whole community. Since each neighborhood competed for the most handsome tree, people had to be wary of residents of other towns trying to steal their May Bush. Occasionally, the bush would be paraded around the community, accompanied by a procession of children who would sing, dance, and ask people for a humble donation of money, sweets, or candles for the tree. Dancing and singing around the May Bush were also very commonplace, with the men and women usually forming a circle and intertwining their hands, weaving in and out under their arms and gathering other dancers to follow them - a practice which possibly represented the movements of the sun. Furthermore, ceremonial sport events were a popular Beltane tradition, and in certain regions of southern Ireland, silver and gold hurling balls (known as "May Balls") were part of the tree's decoration, which would later be gifted to children or the winners of a hurling match. At the conclusion of the festivities, the May Bush might sometimes be burnt in the ritual bonfire as well.

Believed to be a remnant of ancient tree worship, the May Bush was essential to ensure the luck of the household and the whole community (Source)

It was not only the May Bushes that were decorated, though: Doors, windows, byres, and even livestock would be adorned be with yellow or white May flowers, such as primrose, rowan, hawthorn, gorse, hazel, daisies, and buttercups. (It's likely that these bright-colored blooms were meant to evoke fire, and as such encourage growth.) Either loose blossoms would be strewn in front of doors and on windowsills, or they would be arranged into bouquets, garlands, or crosses and fastened to them. Often, children would also place wreaths of flowers in front of their neighbor's doorstep, as a gesture of goodwill. Not only the horns of cows, but also utensils for milking and butter making were adorned with flowers, ensuring a plentiful supply of milk in the coming year.

However, these flowery adornments not only served the purpose to bring good luck, but also were meant as protection: Just like at Samhain, fairies and other supernatural creatures were believed to be especially active during the time of Beltane, and most rituals were focused on warding them off or appeasing them. According to folk belief, fairies and Cailleachs - old hags with magical powers - were particularly prone to stealing dairy products, so there were various practices to prevent them from doing so. Aside from tying May Bush branches to milk pails, the tails of cattle or hanging them in the barn, placing three black coals under a butter churn was supposed to prevent the butter from being snatched by mischievous fairies (alternatively, people might light a candle inside the churn or put herbs into it). It was common to leave food and pour some milk in front of the doorstep as an offering to the aos sí, which would also be done in other places associated with them, including the "fairy trees".

Furthermore, farmers would not let their cattle out on the pastures before noon, since they feared that the fairies would steal the herd otherwise. To prevent this, herdsmen would follow their livestock and pick up the clay their cows had walked over, presumably to cover their trail. It was also believed that the Cailleachs were able to siphon the future year's profit of milk from the cows by making use of Beltane dew, and to retain the profits and protect them from disease, people would drive their cattle onto the fields with a hazel stick (the hazel tree was associated with wisdom and sacred knowledge in Celtic mythology). To gain divine protection for their herds, some Irish farmers would also bring them to so-called "fairy forts", remains of stone circles, ringforts, and hillforts from the prehistoric age of Ireland. There, they would collect a small amount of blood from their livestock which then would be poured into the earth, accompanied by prayers for the herd's safety; occasionally, the blood was also dried and ritually burned.

Additionally, it was common for farmers to lead a procession around the borders of their farmstead. While doing so, they would carry with them seeds of grain, agricultural utensils, the herbs vervain or rowan, and the first well water of Beltane. They would stop at each of the four cardinal points, beginning in the east, and performing rituals in each direction, which were meant to drive off harmful spirits as well as pray for fertility and a productive year.

In concert with the origin of Beltane's patrons as water deities, visiting holy wells was an often practiced ritual at Beltane. Just like at Imbolc and Lughnasadh, visitors would pray for health while walking sunwise around the well, after which they would leave coins and piece of cloth ("clooties") as offerings. The first water drawn from a well on Beltane was also thought to be especially potent, having great curative and protective effects and being good for the complexion. Since it was believed to bring good luck, the water was also used to bless property and animals. Herbs gathered on May 1st were also considered to have more restorative powers, and kidney vetch that was picked on Beltane was stored throughout the year as a cure for various animal diseases.

In addition, Beltane dew was believed to bestow good fortune, beauty, and health: Early at dawn, young maidens would roll in the fresh dew on the meadows, or gather it to wash their faces; sometimes, it would be collected in a jar, left to stand in the sunlight, and then filtered before it was used. Leaving their dew-wet faces to dry in the air was supposed to increase sexual attractiveness, maintain youthfulness, and protect the skin from sun damage, freckles, and other ailments in the year to come. Furthermore, it was said that a man who washed his face with soap and water on Beltane would grow a long mustache, which - judging by ancient sources about the Gauls - was probably seen as a male beau idéal in Celtic culture.

However, there were also things you should avoid doing at Beltane and that would bring you misfortune if you didn't pay attention: For example, no one should light a fire on the morning of 1st May until they saw smoke rising from their neighbor's chimney, so the household fires typically wouldn't be kindled before midday. If you were to enter someone else's dwelling on Beltane, it was said that you always should put your right foot first.

Parting with clothes, ashes, coal, or salt was further believed to bring bad luck, as giving away any resources on Beltane meant you were giving them away for the year. Farmers were especially protective of their dairy products, some of them staying up all night to guard their cows from potential thieves who would try to milk them and thus steal their profits for the following year. On a similar note, if you cut your finger with a stone on Beltane, it was said that the wound would never heal.

Also, spending the night outside was considered to be a very bad idea, as there was nothing to protect you from being captured by the aos sí. If a family owned a white horse, they were advised to keep it in the stable all day, as white animals were said to be especially prone to be stolen by fairies. Meanwhile, all other horses would have a red rag tied to their tail as protection from the gaze of harmful spirits.

Generally, any large undertaking, be it house building, marriage, or anything else, was believed to be ill-fated if it occurred on Beltane. The same went for births, as any foal born on that day was fated to cause someone's death, and any cow that calved on May 1st would soon perish.

Similar to Samhain, Beltane Night was also believed to be the time when the ghosts of Irish ancestors who died abroad would return to their homes, and all of the deceased would return from the Otherworld to visit their old friends. As a gesture of hospitality, people would often leave their door unlocked, as well as putting a cake and a jug of milk on the table for them.

As with the other Celtic seasonal festivals, there were also various animal superstitions surrounding Beltane: If a girl saw a white snail on the morning of May 1st, it meant that she would have good luck and find a good husband, but if a black snail crossed her way, it was considered a harbinger of death. Seeing a white lamb from the left was also thought to be a good sign, but hearing the call of a cuckoo was supposed to bring misfortune. (The cuckoo was seen as a herald of summer in Ireland, as the migratory bird would typically return to its breeding grounds mid-April or even as early as April 2nd; thus, it was unusually late for the cuckoo to arrive in late April/early May, which was seen as a sign of a bad summer.) If a robin flew into the house on Beltane, it was believed to be an especially bad sign, prophesizing the future death of a household member. (According to Irish folklore, the Robin murdered its father the Wren, the Oak King and old sun, thus gaining its blood-red chest and becoming the new sun.)

Beltane, Easter, and the origin of the May Queen

As early as the 5th century, the population of Ireland slowly started converting to Christianity. However, in contrast to other nations where conversation was usually accompanied by violent struggles and/or active repression of the previous pagan religion, the old Irish traditions and Catholic faith peacefully assimilated with each other, creating a unique, Celtic subbranch of Christianity. Due to this and the date of Beltane not really coinciding with any major Christian holiday in spring - Easter, Ascension Day, and Pentecost - the pagan rituals and Christian traditions more or less co-existed alongside each other for several centuries, with some conventions also influencing each other: For example, left-over eggshells from Easter Sunday were a popular decoration for May Bushes, and making the sign of the cross with milk on May Day was generally believed to bring good luck.

However, as with the other seasonal festivals, we can also see some attempts to Christianize the original meaning behind Beltane: Legend has it that Saint Patrick was also the first one to ignite an Easter fire in Ireland, back in the year 433. In one of the earliest tales about him, recorded by the monk Muirchú in the Vita sancti Patricii ("The Life of Saint Patrick") some time in the 7th century, Saint Patrick intends to light a Paschal fire on the Hill of Slane to commemorate the Easter Vigil, as is Christian tradition. However, just on the same date, an important pagan celebration (which may be identical with Beltane) also took place, and according to the law, no one else was to ignite a bonfire before the High King's Fire was lit by his druids on the Hill of Tara, or else they would be punished with death. St. Patrick, however, defied this taboo, setting up a large fire in honor of the Lord which was visible from miles away. This challenge of authority did not go unnoticed, as the bewildered druids soon spotted the bonfire from the king's residence at Tara, about 10 miles away from the Hill of Slane. The druids soon informed their king that someone had dared to violate their sacred customs, anxiously telling him about visions that they saw of "an eternal kingdom that triumphed over all others" and "that would bring about their pagan kingdom's fall" - also, if they did not extinguish the rival's fire this night, "it would keep growing and eventually outshine all others, spreading to all of Ireland, and the one who lit it would become the new ruler of the country". The enraged king and his great band of warriors made his way to the Hill of Slane with their chariots, nine in total, ready to slay the person who was behind the fire. When they arrived there, the king sent messengers to speak to St. Patrick first, but upon hearing the latter's words, some of them promptly converted to Christianity. In another version, the messengers tried to put out St. Patrick's fire but failed, believing it to be some kind of superior magic and taking St. Patrick for a very powerful sorcerer. Eventually, St. Patrick was invited to a meeting with the king himself on the following Easter Sunday. Clad entirely in white, St. Patrick appeared at the High King's court with his companions, explaining the cornerstones of the Christian doctrine to all those present. The attendees were enamored by his zealous devotion, and even the king was so impressed that even though he didn't convert, he gave St. Patrick permission to preach the Gospel to the Irish people, granting him and his religion his royal protection - and thus, "the light of Christ" conquered the entire nation of Ireland. On the Hill of Slane, at the same spot where St. Patrick's bonfire once burned, ruins of a Christian monastery can still be seen.

According to legend, Saint Patrick was the first one to light an Easter fire in Ireland, although his bonfire has obvious similarities to those of Beltane (Source)

It's pretty clear from the wording alone that this tale is a classical metaphor for "pagan religion gets ousted by superior Christian faith" - but contrary to what the story tells us, it seems that Easter fires were not part of the Catholic liturgy at all until the 8th century: There is a correspondence between Pope Zachary and Saint Boniface preserved from 751, which mentions so-called "ignis pachalis" (paschal fires) and raises the question of how to deal with them. This strongly suggests that Easter fires were previously unknown in the Roman Catholic Church - so either, the chronicler incorporated a tradition from his time into the 5th century legend, or Easter fires were a custom specific to Ireland. This would support the theory that Easter fires were a custom of pagan origin (either Celtic or Germanic) that has been Christianized over the centuries. In medieval times, the association of the Easter fires with God and Jesus was introduced for the first time. From this, the ritual to ignite an open-air fire on Easter Night developed, around which the whole community would gather while the priests lighted a candle at the consecrated fire. This candle would then be carried through the darkness to the church, lighting the way for the followers to the Mass. The candle came to be seen as a symbol of Christ, "the light of the world", and just like the Israelites followed the fiery column through the desert during their Exodus from Egypt, the believers would follow the light of Jesus on his way from death to life. As such, the Easter fire became firmly associated with the resurrection of Christ - a symbolism that is undoubtedly very similar to the revival of summer represented by pagan bonfires.

Aside from this, there is the Christian rite - particularly in Roman Catholic countries - of crowning an icon of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, as "the Queen of the May" as part of various celebrations in her honor taking place during the same month, which may be connected to other May Queen traditions. Ever since the Middle Ages, the May Day custom of crowning a May Queen is attested in Germany, although it seems to have started out more as an auction for potential future brides (which probably originated from the fact that girls were mostly treated as commodities on a legal level). In England, however, the character of the May Queen possessed traits of the personification of May and summer, which at least go back to the High Middle Ages. In Tudor and Stuart times, choosing a Lord and Lady to preside over each festival was very popular, which also may have influenced the selection of a May King and Queen during the May Day festivities.

In the 18th century, due to the many holidays in May dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Roman Jesuits declared the whole month as a time of veneration for her, and as the practice spread from Italy to other Catholic countries, the ritual of a crowning of Mary also developed over time. Although crowing images of Mary goes as far back as the 5th century, it was usually done with a golden crown, while in parishes and private communities of the 19th century, it would be a flower crown that adorned the head of Mary's icon - a custom which, somewhat coincidentally, became more widespread at almost the same time when the tradition of crowning a May Queen experienced a revival due to Alfred Tennyson's poem "The May Queen".

A crowning of Mary, also known as May Crowning, could take place at any time during May - although May 1st was a common date, some parishes might prefer to do it on Mother's Day, and sometimes, it would even take place after Pentecost. Traditionally, the ceremony would take place during Mass, when a procession of young girls carrying hawthorn flowers would make their way to the statue of Mary. The flowers would then be used to adorn the statue or laid at its feet, while the oldest girl of the procession - who was typically also the May Queen - would take a crown of flowers and place it on Mary's head. Afterwards, various prayers and hymns to Mary would be recited, praising her as the "Queen of Heaven", "Mother of God", and "Queen of May".

Whether the similarities to old pagan customs are mere coincidence or not, it is clear that the figures of Jesus Christ - the God who died and rose again - and the Virgin Mary - the Holy, life-giving Mother - possess a high recognition value. This, however, gives rise to an interesting question: Just what is it that makes these archetypes so identifiable for so many people across different countries?

The beginning of May as a time for fertility rites is widely believed to go back to the ancient Romans' worship of the spring goddess Flora, whose festivities took place during late April and early May. People would adorn themselves with flowers, women wore colorful, normally indecent clothes, and many games and plays would be held to celebrate Flora's reunion with Favonius (also called Zephyrus, like his Greek counterpart), the god of the favorable west winds who would finally return to her at the advent of springtime after months of separation. (It's noteworthy that "west" is also the cardinal direction of death, as west is where the sun sets).

However, the motifs behind this myth appear to be way older, and can be seen in the Phrygian goddess Cybele, the Great Mother, and Attis, the shepherd god that was her consort. Their cult originated in Anatolia in the 7th century BC, eventually spreading to Greece, Thrace, and the Roman Empire. According to the version of Pausanias, both of them were born from Agdistis, a hermaphroditic being, and fell deeply in love with one another due to their shared origin. However, since Attis was supposed to marry the daughter of the King of Pessinus, Cybele appeared at his wedding and furiously voiced her protests. She cursed all of the attendees with madness, including Attis, who ran into the wilderness and castrated himself in front of a pine tree, dying in the process. Thus, his spirit passed into the pine, with Cybele asking Zeus that Attis' body - the evergreen tree - would never wither. From this, the tradition of the Roman festival Hilaria from March 15th to 28th developed, during which a pine tree would be ceremoniously cut down, mourned, and buried. Afterwards, a day of joyous festivities and merriment followed, to celebrate Cybele's reunion with Attis after his resurrection.

A divine couple consisting of a mother/fertility goddess and a periodically rising-and-dying god can also be observed in other religions, such as Aphrodite and Adonis from Greek lore and Isis and Osiris from the Egyptian myths, whose festivals would always take place some time in spring or summer in accordance with the growth of vegetation. However, although the figure of a god who dies and is revived again has been argued to be more typical of Near Eastern religions and the cults that developed from them, it is still possible that the concept influenced other European beliefs. After all, the Ancient Celts maintained flourishing trade relationships with Greece and Rome, and in addition to the exchange of goods and technological achievements, there might also have been an exchange of religious ideas. Also, aside from a few similarities between Celtic and Mediterranean spiritual practices that we've been seeing - such as sanctuaries with perpetually burning fires (a characteristic of Vesta and Hestia's cults) and the worship of the three "Matronae", or triple goddesses (represented by the Moirai in Greek mythology) - the cycle of death and rebirth is a very prominent theme in Celtic myths. So, perhaps what Flora and Favonius were to the Romans and what Cybele and Attis were to the Phrygians might have been Belenus and Belisama for the Celts.  Either way, the notion of a pair of fertility deities uniting at the advent of the growing season and bringing about the budding of nature seems to be a notion so deeply rooted in our collective mind that even centuries of religious revolution and reinterpretation were unable to wipe it away.

Modern May Day traditions

Throughout most countries, Beltane and May Day have been replaced by International Workers' Day nowadays. Unfortunately, the old Beltane traditions of Ireland and Scotland mostly died out during the course of the 19th century, which may have been amplified by legal prohibitions. In Scotland, the May Day festival was officially outlawed as early as 1555, and in the 18th century, the May Bush was formally prohibited in Ireland by the Victorian government due to the competition for the most beautiful tree being deemed a hazard to public order. However, although they are no longer widespread, bonfire customs still survive in some regions of Ireland such as Limerick and Clare, and even in the Dublin suburb Ringsend. Scottish Beltane traditions had largely declined for a time, but have experienced a revival in the late 20th century. Since then, Glasgow and Edinburgh organize annual Beltane festivals and rallies, with the Beltane Fire Festival in Edinburh lasting from May Eve till the early hours of May Day morning - and even today, it is said that young women from Edinburgh who climb Arthur's Seat and wash their face with the morning dew will gain lifelong beauty.

Meanwhile, in Wales, May Day is known under the name Calan Mai, literally meaning "the first of May" (alternate terms include Calan Hâf, "first of summer", and Cyntefin). Although they differ in name, the Welsh celebrations on May Day share numerous similarities with Beltane: According to folklore, Calan Mai is one of the "spirit nights" of the year, when spirits were out and about and divination was possible. Traditionally, bonfires were lit by the means of friction between wood, sometimes two of them side by side - until the 19th century, a calf or sheep would also be sacrificed to the fire, to prevent disease from befalling the whole flock. Round cakes of oatmeal and brown-meal were also baked, and whoever pulled a brown-meal slice out of a bag would have to leap over the flames or run between the bonfires three times, which was supposed to ensure a good harvest. On May Eve, villagers would go out to gather hawthorn branches and flowers to decorate the outside of their houses and celebrate growth and fertility. At the dawn of May Day, they would be woken up by groups of young musicians going around and reciting bawdy May or summer carols, expressing wishes of good luck and a fruitful summer in a custom commonly known as "singing under the wall" - if their performance was worthy, they would be rewarded with food and drink by the people. From mid-14th century Wales, we have the first account of a Maypole in all of the British Isles, a large post fashioned out of birchwood and adorned with ribbons, which would be set up for people to dance around it. As part of the festivities, a mock battle between seasons would also take place, with two warriors representing winter and summer going up against each other: The warrior of winter carried a hawthorn stick and a shield with wool pieces symbolizing snow, while the warrior of summer was bedecked with garlands of flowers and ribbons and wielding a willow-wand which had bands of spring flowers tied to it. Winter would combat summer by throwing straw and dry underbrush at it, which Summer countered with birch branches, willow rods, and young ferns. Eventually, Summer would win, a King and Queen of the May would be crowned, and dancing, games, feasting and drinking would take place until the morn of the next day. Although these traditions are old, some of them are still practiced in modern-day Wales.

Across the rest of Great Britain, traditional May Day customs include the crowning of a May Queen, Morris dancing, and festivities involving a Maypole, usually with dancers circling around it while holding ribbons. In the Isle of Ely, the Maypole tradition remains alive even in the 21st century, while in other regions, the old May Day customs have been revived. Kingsbury Episcopi has reintroduced a modern version of the festival several years ago, while more traditional festivals are held in Hastings, Whitstable, and Rochester (Kent), often featuring a figure called Jack in the Green, a human dressed up as a tree or bush who is accompanied by musicians during a procession.

Although Maypole customs regionally differ, they are usually young birch trees adorned with colorful ribbons and garlands (Source)

However, folk customs resembling those of Beltane also can be observed in other European countries, such as south-western Germany and Switzerland, which once formed the core of the Celtic territories in ancient times. On Walpurgis Night, as the May Eve is called in Germany, a Maypole is erected in many places, and in earlier times, folk dances would often take place around it. Communities have a competition for the tallest and prettiest Maypole, and in Bavaria, Maypoles actively need to be defended from being stolen by rivaling towns - if the competitors manage to steal your tree anyway, you have to pay a considerable amount of beer to the "captors" as ransom. In Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and the Rhineland, "private" Maypoles are also very common: Young men put a birch sapling in front of their sweetheart's door, colorfully adorned and usually bearing an inscription hinting at their identity - however, they have to pay attention to put it in a well-hidden place, or else other suitors might discover it and take it away or exchange it with their own until dawn. In leap years, it's the women's turn to place a Maypole in front of their lovers' houses. In some regions, such as Baden-Württemberg, Rhineland-Palatine, and the Saarland, it's also typical for youths to play tricks: For example, all objects which could be found in the neighbors' front yards would be taken and thrown onto a pile on the village square, where the rightful owners would have to retrieve them. Young children will also go through the neighborhood ding-dong-ditching, as well as smearing door handles with shoe polish - tricks that seem quite reminiscent of the mischievous fairies of old. In the Swiss Cantons of Fribourg, Geneva, and Ticino, there is also the tradition of the so-called "May singing", where children go from house to house and recite songs in front of the doors, for which they are rewarded with sweets and coins. (It is noted that May singing was also formerly practiced in other regions of Switzerland, Austria, Germany, France, Northern Italy, and German-speaking areas of the Czech Republic - all of which once were among the Celtic regions of continental Europe.)

Singing is also an integral part of the festival of Calendimaggio in Northern Italy (also known as Cantar maggio) which is still very alive today, primarily in the regions of Piedmont, Linguria, Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, and Umbra. In a tradition that somewhat resembles a magical propitiation ritual, singers known as the Maggi (or maggerini) adorn themselves with flowers and plants of spring, such as violets, roses, golden rain, and alder - the alder in particular is considered a symbol of life, as the trees start blooming along many rivers during spring. Dressed up like this, the Maggi go from house to house chanting auspicious verses, typically romantic love songs to celebrate the arrival of spring. Historically, Calendimaggio has been observed as a mystical character in Tuscany who shares many attributes of the god Belenus, and the Maggi's auspicious role is also clearly of pagan origin. As such, Calendimaggio is a festival strongly influenced by the cycle of nature, going back to the traditions of the Celts, Etruscans, and Lingurians alike, for whom the arrival of summer was of great importance.

Some May Day customs even made their way over to America: Irish emigrants brought the tradition of decorating a May Bush with flowers, ribbons, garlands, and bright shells to Newfoundland, and the custom is also part of some Easter traditions on the American East Coast. Until the mid-20th century, it was also very common to make a May Basket in America. At the end of April, people would collect flowers, candies, and other goodies to put them in a basket which they would hang on the doors of their neighbors, friends, and loved one once dusk fell. Furthermore, it was also seen as an opportunity to express romantic interest, with young boys and girls gifting May Baskets to their crushes - a story which seems very reminiscent of German Maypole traditions.

Beltane may be surrounded by a lot of rumors, mysteries, and fantastical perceptions, in no small part thanks to modern popular culture. Nevertheless, the risen interest in pagan religions is proof that more and more people begin thinking back to their origins. However you wish to celebrate it, Beltane is a festival of new beginnings, when you can finally shed yourself of old burdens and look forward to what the future might bring. So, use this opportunity to clear your mind, embrace positivity, and good luck in all that's coming for you!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

And that's it for Beltane! I must say, this was the hardest one for me so far since separating truth from fiction when it comes to Beltane can be quite difficult. xD Nevertheless, it was an enlightening experience, and I hope you enjoyed this article as well. If you did, please stay tuned for the next issue on August 1st, when we will take a look at the festival of Lughnasadh. See you then! :-)

[jacksonjohnofficial]

MY CARNIVORE STORY

As the temperatures drop, and the holidays approach, many of us find ourselves struggling to maintain our diets and exercise routines. However, for some individuals, winter is the perfect time to make positive changes, especially when it comes to transitioning to a carnivore diet.

For those unfamiliar, the carnivore diet consists of eating only meat, fish, and animal products, such as eggs and dairy. Advocates of the diet claim it can help with weight loss, energy regulation, and improved mental clarity.

I recently started the carnivore diet in December and managed to lose an impressive 11kg by March. Remarkably, I found retaining my strength, gaining endurance, and experiencing no energy drop-offs; quite an achievement for transitioning to a meat-only diet during the winter months.

So, how did I do it?

First and foremost, I ensured my diet was balanced by consuming different types of meat. I used  beef, pork, and chicken. I also focused on consuming high-quality meat, opting for grass-fed and organic sources where possible. 

Furthermore, I was careful to consume enough fat. While it may seem counter-intuitive, consuming enough fat is crucial to providing the body with energy and keeping one satiated. Since my meals were purely meat , I made sure to add enough fat to their meat, such as cooking with butter and adding cheese when i was under my desired level of fat. 

Finally, i was mindful of hydration levels, drinking plenty of water and mineral supplements to prevent any electrolyte imbalances.

In conclusion, transitioning to a carnivore diet during the winter months may seem daunting to some, but with the right approach, it can prove to be a successful way to shed weight, improve energy levels, and even improve physical performance. However, like any diet, maintaining balance and consuming high-quality sources of meat and fat is crucial to success. With the right approach, you too can achieve impressive results on this unconventional diet.

[serpentface]

THE HIGHLAND KHAIT: AN OVERVIEW

The Highland khait, known internally as the feydhi, is a landrace breed of the Highlands of contemporary Imperial Wardin, and highly distinctive from all other native khait in the region. Their horns are notably unusual, being curved and pointed and frequently asymmetrical, which is often cited as a result of their folkloric origins as hybrids of khait and the (asymmetrically one-antlered) scimitar deer. They are very stocky and small for a riding breed, typically standing no more (and usually less) than 55 inches at the shoulder. Their coats come in a wide variety of colors and patterning, though a majority of individuals are dun or gray. Their manes are notably short and stiff, and they lack the beards common in many other khait breeds.

While notably slower than other khait, feydhi are very surefooted and have notably smooth gaits, able to move at a steady trot over difficult terrain with minimal bouncing for the rider. They are extremely strong for their size, and fully capable of carrying most adult riders and heavy packs, and pulling plows.

Their hair is longer than average but provides little insulation and they do not grow winter coats, and instead rely predominantly on fat stores to cope with winter conditions. They are easy keepers that can gain and maintain mass with very poor grazing, though most require supplements of grain to their diets to gain sufficient fat stores to survive winters in the highest settled altitudes.

Feydhi can adapt well to the hotter lowlands conditions than other Highlands livestock largely due to this lack of thick hair. Because they require no supplement to their diet to maintain condition, they are very affordable khait and an asset (along with a few other specialized lowlands breeds) during dry seasons, and see wide use throughout Imperial Wardin (particularly as pack animals along trade routes). They often survive a little too well in the lowlands, being adapted to sparse mountain pastures rather than seasonally abundant grasslands, and can be prone to obesity when allowed to graze freely.

They show a small degree of selection for milk production due to the import of dairy to the regional diet of the Highlands. Their milk has the highest fat content of the native livestock, but a notably gamey taste that is generally disfavored. It's used primarily as-is for basic sustenance and medicinal purposes- growing children and pregnant women are encouraged to drink feydhi milk to build fat stores, and mounted herders will often ride lactating mares in the winter and subsist largely upon their milk. Their meat is also the fattiest of any of the regional livestock and (unlike their milk) generally regarded as the best in taste, though their value as riding animals and more expensive upkeep prevents their consumption on any regular basis.

Rendered, chilled feydhi fat mashed with berries and eaten on bread is a seasonal delicacy eaten at midwinter feasts. It is considered an obligation of a wealthy ruling clan to slaughter some of their khait and provide the fat for this meal to their dependents, and an indication of failing wealth and authority if they cannot. A phrase translating as 'rich in cattle, poor in fat' invokes the notion of having a clan having superficial wealth (in cattle, which can largely sustain themselves on poor grazing and thus can hide a loss of material power for a period) but a heavily insecure position (unable to actually afford to lose their more high maintenance assets), and is used colloquially to describe a person or people giving hollow performances to mask lacking or lost substance.

They have some unique behavioral quirks among khait, such as a propensity to use their lower teeth in allogrooming to rake and scratch each other. This favoring of their teeth also lends more aggressive animals to biting (in addition to the far more khait-typical headbutting and kicking), a behavior that seems reserved exclusively for humans and is rarely used in intraspecies conflict. As with all bovidae, they no upper incisors and their bite can only do so much harm in most circumstances, but they can cause significant damage to the fingers of the unwary. They are also known for their tendency to consume bite-sized animals such as small birds when given the opportunity- this is not atypical of khait (or many grazing herbivores at large), but is emphasized in combination with their tendency to bite to cast them as uniquely carnivorous.

Their temperaments are regarded as notably stubborn and somewhat testy, but this is made up for with their intelligence and generally calm demeanor. Feydhi are most prized for their bravery- they do not spook easily against wild predators and can perform some functions as livestock guardians, readily chasing off small threats and known to stand their ground against even large predators, particularly hyena (the most populous and routinely threatening predator in the region).

This trait is commonly noted in folktales- one western mountain pass is said to be haunted by the ghost of an old gray mare who stood guard over her master (a noted drunk, who had fallen off her back and passed out) against a pack of hyenas for an entire night. When her rider awoke the next day, he found her dead and bloodied with her horns stuck into a hyena's side, having killed the predators but succumbed to her own wounds. He was so sorrowful that he resolved to never drink again (outside of holidays, and perhaps weddings) and buried her under stone. Travelers through this pass customarily pour out liquor and leave little offerings of grain for the animal's spirit, which is said to be seen at night from a distance, standing vigilant atop its cairn, but vanishes when approached.

The settlement cycle stories of the Hill Tribes go into extensive detail about the cattle and horses brought overseas with the migrants, but elaborate little on their khait and imply that a riding culture did not exist during the settlement period. The stories tend to describe people as walking on foot or riding their cattle, and khait riding is only mentioned in descriptions of proto-Wardi mounted nomads in the lowlands. It is likely that khait riding (rather than sole use as pack animals) was an adopted practice post-settlement, and possible that khait were not brought along with the migrants to begin with.

The actual origins of the feydhi breed are ambiguous as such. Old Ephenni folklore mentions tiny 'fairy' khait living in the Highlands that predated the arrival of the Hill Tribes, suggesting that these animals were already established as feral herds. It's highly possible that these herds were are a relic of the cairn-building civilization that existed in the Highlands prior to recorded history and had already long vanished (likely in a combination of plague and dispersal) prior to the settlement. The stories of feydhi being hybrids between foreign khait and native deer is also suggestive of such an origin, with wild deer as ancestors being a mythologized twist on feral khait.

Feydhi do not have the same status of cattle or horses as fundamental to subsistence, with much of their use being in utility as pack animals and transport over difficult terrain. However, they play very significant roles in the livestock raiding aspects of warrior culture, where they are used for quick exits and to help drive cattle and horses. Their roles in other aspects of warrior culture are more varied between tribes- some use them near-exclusively for raids, while others rely on them for open combat. Khait warrior culture is most central in the western Urbinnas tribes, who each consider themselves to be the most skilled riders and uniquely specialize towards mounted archery. The Urbinnas tribes have a long history of interaction with the lowlands Ephenni Wardi (alternating cycles of conflict and trade, and a half century of allyship against Imperial Burri occupiers). Both groups have a strong history of mounted warrior culture, and each claims to have introduced mounted archery to the other.

Khait also play roles in regional combat sports, which include mock battles and raids, races, archery, and most famously khait wrestling. The latter involves two mounted riders attempting to wrestle one another off their khait, gain control of their opponent's mount, and then successfully lead both animals out of the ring without their opponent re-mounting. This sport requires very calm, collected animals that will not panic while being fought over, and the measured temperament of the feydhi is well suited.

[whencyclopedia]

The Nerge: Hunting in the Mongol Empire

The peoples of the Mongol Empire (1206-1368 CE) were nomadic, and they relied on hunting wild game as a valuable source of protein. The Asian steppe is a desolate, windy, and often bitterly cold environment, but for those Mongols with sufficient skills at riding and simultaneously using a bow, there were wild animals to be caught to supplement their largely dairy-based diet. Over time, hunting and falconry became important cultural activities and great hunts were organised whenever there were major clan gatherings and important celebrations. These hunts involved all of the tribe mobilising across vast areas of steppe to corner game into a specific area, a technique known as the nerge. The skills and strategies used during the nerge were often repeated with great success by Mongol cavalry on the battlefield across Asia and in Eastern Europe.

Hunted Animals

The Mongols, like other nomadic peoples of the Asian steppe, relied on milk from their livestock for food and drink, making cheese, yoghurt, dried curds and fermented drinks. The animals they herded - sheep, goats, oxen, camels and yaks - were generally too precious as a regular source of wool and milk to kill for meat and so protein was acquired through hunting, essentially any wild animal that moved. Animals hunted in the medieval period included hares, deer, antelopes, wild boars, wild oxen, marmots, wolves, foxes, rabbits, wild asses, Siberian tigers, lions, and many wild birds, including swans and cranes (using snares and falconry). Meat was especially in demand when great feasts were held to celebrate tribal occasions and political events such as the election of a new khan or Mongol ruler.

A basic division of labour was that women did the cooking and men did the hunting. Meat was typically boiled and more rarely roasted and then added to soups and stews. Dried meat (si'usun) was an especially useful staple for travellers and roaming Mongol warriors. In the harsh steppe environment, nothing was wasted and even the marrow of animal bones was eaten with the leftovers then boiled in a broth to which curd or millet was added. Animal sinews were used in tools and fat was used to waterproof items like tents and saddles.

The Mongols considered eating certain parts of those wild animals which were thought to have potent spirits such as wolves and even marmots a help with certain ailments. Bear paws, for example, were thought to help increase one's resistance to cold temperatures. Such concoctions as powdered tiger bone dissolved in liquor, which is attributed all sorts of benefits for the body, is still a popular medicinal drink today in parts of East Asia.

Besides food and medicine, game animals were also a source of material for clothing. A bit of wolf or snow leopard fur trim to an ordinary robe indicated the wearer was a member of the tribal elite. Fur-lined jackets, trousers, and boots were a welcome insulator against the bitter steppe winters, too.

Continue reading...

[brothermoth]

Northern Europe had a shit ton of dairy products — and we know this because those regions have lower levels of lactose intolerance! In the early middle ages like 97% of your diet would be grains, but they were making a variety of dishes using things like barley and millet. Bread was super fucking important and probably would have been eaten every day, and if they could afford it, they'd add spices like cinnamon to their porridges. Medieval people fucking LOVED spices that we put in pumpkin pie nowadays. Allspice, stuff like that. Sugar wasn't really widely available until the 1600s, but salt was a pretty common seasoning.

Meat was usually a fall thing. They'd slaughter animals they couldn't afford to feed through the winter. Coastal places had fish year round though, but most people probably had meat five or six times a year—if not less.

tfw you see some stupid post that paints medieval peasants eating just plain grey porridge and acting as if cheese, butter or meat was too exotic or expensive for them, and have to use all your inner strength to not just reblog it with an angry rant and throwing hands with people. so i will just post the angry rant here

no, medieval people did not only eat grey porridge with no herbs or spices, they had a great variety of vegetables we dont even have anymore, grains and dairy products, not to mention fruits and meats, all seasonal and changing with the time of the year. no, medieval food was not just tasteless, maybe this will surprise some of you but you can make tasty food without excessive spice use, and can use a variety of good tasting herbs. if you'd ever tried to cook some medieval recipes you would know that. medieval people needed a lot of energy for their work, if they would only eat fucking porridge all of the time they would get scurvy and die before they could even built a civilisation. they had something called 'pottage' which was called that because it was cooked in one pot. you could leave the pot on the fire and go about your day, doing stuff and come back to a cooked meal. they put in what was available that time of the year, together with grains, peas, herbs, meat etc etc. again, if you would try to make it, like i have with my reenactment friends, it can actually be really good and diverse.

dont confuse medieval peasants with poor people in victorian england. dont think that TV shows what it was really like. dont think that dirty grey dressed people covered in filth were how the people looked like.

they made use of everything. too poor to buy proper meat? buy a sheeps head and cook it. they ate nettle and other plants we consider weeds now. they foraged and made use of what they found. hell, there are medieval cook books!

most rural people had animals, they had chickens (eggs), goats (milk and dairy), cows (milk and dairy), sheep (milk and dairy) and pigs (meat machine), and after butchering they used ALL THE PARTS of the animal. you know how much meat you can get out of a pig, even the smaller medieval breeds? the answer is a lot

if you had the space you always had a vegetable garden. there are ways to make sure you have something growing there every time of the year. as i said they had a variety of vegetables (edit: yes onions are vegetables, for those who dont seem to know) we dont have anymore due to how farming evolved. you smoked pork in the chimney, stored apples in the dry places in your house, had a grain chest. people could go to the market to buy fish and meat, both fresh and dried/smoked. they had ale, beer and wine, that was not a luxury that was a staple part of their diet.

this post ended once again up being longer than i planned, but please for the love of the gods, just actually educate yourself on this stuff and dont just say stupid wrong shit, takk

[alishin911]

farm-animals-for-sale

you're looking for farm animals for sale, whether you're starting a homestead, expanding your farm, or simply interested in adding new animals to your farm, there are many options available. From traditional livestock like cows, pigs, and chickens, to more specialized animals such as alpacas or goats, farm animals can be a rewarding addition to your property. Websites like animalssale.com can be helpful for browsing available animals, but it’s important to consider the specific care and requirements of each species before purchasing.

Here’s a guide to some common farm animals for sale and important factors to consider when buying them.

1. Cattle (Cows and Bulls)

Cattle are one of the most essential farm animals, providing dairy, meat, and even leather. There are various breeds of cattle, each suited to different purposes. Dairy cows, beef cattle, and dual-purpose breeds (suitable for both meat and milk) are common choices.

Popular Cattle Breeds:

Holstein: Primarily a dairy breed known for high milk production.

Angus: Popular for beef production, known for tender, high-quality meat.

Hereford: Another beef breed known for its docile temperament and efficient growth.

Care Considerations:

Space: Cattle need plenty of space to roam and graze. A few acres of pasture are generally required for grazing.

Feeding: Cattle typically graze on grass but may require supplemental feeding, especially during winter months.

Shelter: While cattle are hardy animals, they need some form of shelter or shade to protect them from extreme weather conditions.

2. Pigs

Pigs are commonly raised for meat production (pork) and are known for their intelligence and quick growth. They can be raised on small farms or large commercial operations.

Popular Pig Breeds:

Yorkshire: Known for its fast growth and ability to adapt to various climates.

Berkshire: Valued for its marbled meat, which produces a tender and flavorful pork.

Landrace: Another popular breed for pork production due to its high fertility and good meat yield.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Pigs need secure housing to protect them from predators and the elements. Pens or barns are commonly used.

Feeding: Pigs are omnivores and require a balanced diet that can include grains, vegetables, and protein sources.

Space: Pigs need plenty of room to root around and exercise. If raised on pasture, they can be rotated to different areas to avoid overgrazing.

3. Chickens

Chickens are one of the most popular farm animals, primarily raised for their eggs and meat. They are relatively easy to care for and require minimal space, making them a great option for both small farms and large-scale operations.

Popular Chicken Breeds:

Rhode Island Red: Known for high egg production and hardiness.

Leghorn: A prolific egg layer, especially in commercial egg farms.

Cornish: Primarily raised for meat, known for rapid growth and large size.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Chickens need a secure coop to protect them from predators and weather conditions. It should also provide nesting boxes for egg-laying.

Diet: Chickens eat grains, seeds, and insects. They also benefit from supplemental calcium for strong eggshells.

Space: Chickens need room to roam, scratch, and forage. Free-range chickens are often healthier and happier but still require a secure coop at night.

4. Goats

Goats are versatile farm animals that can be raised for milk, meat, or fiber. They are social animals and are often kept in pairs or small groups.

Popular Goat Breeds:

Nubian: A popular milk breed with high butterfat content in its milk.

Boer: Primarily raised for meat production due to their rapid growth and large size.

Angora: Raised for their fiber, which is used to produce mohair.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Goats need a shelter that protects them from rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. They should also have access to secure fencing to prevent them from escaping.

Feeding: Goats are herbivores and need access to fresh forage like grass and hay. They can also eat grains and need fresh water at all times.

Space: Goats need plenty of space to graze and exercise. They are known to be escape artists, so fencing must be secure.

5. Sheep

Sheep are raised for their wool, meat (lamb or mutton), and milk. They are hardy animals and are well-suited for grazing on pastures.

Popular Sheep Breeds:

Merino: Known for high-quality wool and hardiness.

Suffolk: A meat breed known for its large size and good growth rate.

Dorset: Known for their excellent lambing ability and quality meat.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Sheep need a secure shelter to protect them from predators and weather conditions. They can be kept in barns or open sheds.

Feeding: Sheep are herbivores and primarily graze on grass, but they may need supplemental hay during the winter months.

Fencing: Sheep require strong fencing, as they can be prone to escaping or wandering off.

6. Horses

Horses are often kept for riding, work, and companionship. They are also used for livestock management, racing, and other activities.

Popular Horse Breeds:

Arabian: Known for their endurance and agility, often used for long-distance riding.

Thoroughbred: Popular in racing and equestrian sports.

Clydesdale: A draft breed, known for its large size and strength, often used for farm work.

Care Considerations:

Space: Horses need a lot of space to roam and graze. A few acres of pasture are generally required for grazing and exercise.

Diet: Horses primarily eat grass and hay, but they may need supplemental grains and minerals, especially if they are being worked or bred.

Shelter: Horses require a shelter to protect them from harsh weather conditions, but they do well outside in temperate climates.

7. Alpacas

Alpacas are primarily raised for their soft fleece, which is used to make high-quality textiles. They are gentle and easy to handle, making them popular for small farms or hobby farms.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Alpacas need a secure shelter from extreme weather conditions and enough space to roam and graze.

Diet: Alpacas are herbivores and graze on grass and hay. They may also need supplemental minerals and vitamins.

Social Animals: Alpacas are social creatures and should not be kept alone. They do best in small herds.

8. Llamas

Llamas are larger than alpacas and are often kept as pack animals or for their wool. They are intelligent and can be trained to carry loads, making them useful for farming or hiking.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Llamas require a dry, clean shelter and plenty of space to roam. They are hardy animals but should be protected from extreme cold and wet conditions.

Diet: Llamas are herbivores and primarily graze on grass and hay.

Social Animals: Like alpacas, llamas are social and should be kept with other llamas or farm animals.

9. Rabbits

Rabbits are often raised for meat, fiber (such as Angora wool), or as pets. They are easy to care for and do not require much space, making them an excellent option for smaller farms or homesteads.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Rabbits require a secure hutch or cage with plenty of room to hop around. They also need access to fresh bedding and a safe, dry area.

Diet: Rabbits are herbivores and primarily eat hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of fruit.

Space: Rabbits should be allowed to exercise outside their cage regularly to stay healthy.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing Farm Animals:

Space: Ensure that you have enough space for the animals you plan to purchase. Many farm animals require large areas to roam and graze.

Legal Restrictions: Some animals may require special permits or have local regulations. Make sure to check with local authorities about any restrictions or permits needed to keep farm animals.

Time and Commitment: Farm animals require daily care, feeding, and attention. Consider the time and effort needed to care for them before making a purchase.

Breeders and Sellers: When purchasing farm animals, ensure you are buying from a reputable breeder or seller. Look for breeders who prioritize animal welfare and health.

Vet Care: Have access to a vet who specializes in livestock care. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and health monitoring are essential for the well-being of your animals.

Conclusion:Farm animals for sale can be a rewarding addition to your homestead or farm, whether you're looking for livestock to produce meat, milk, or wool, or simply for companionship and fun. From cattle and pigs to chickens, goats, and alpacas, there are a wide variety of animals available for sale. By considering your available space, time, and resources, you can ensure that you choose the right farm animals for your needs and provide them with a healthy, happy life. Always research the care requirements for each species before purchasing and consider adopting from a rescue or reputable breeder to ensure the health and well-being of the animals

[aparichitt]

farm-animals-for-sale

If you're looking for farm animals for sale, whether you're starting a homestead, expanding your farm, or simply interested in adding new animals to your farm, there are many options available. From traditional livestock like cows, pigs, and chickens, to more specialized animals such as alpacas or goats, farm animals can be a rewarding addition to your property. Websites like animalssale.com can be helpful for browsing available animals, but it’s important to consider the specific care and requirements of each species before purchasing.

Here’s a guide to some common farm animals for sale and important factors to consider when buying them.

1. Cattle (Cows and Bulls)

Cattle are one of the most essential farm animals, providing dairy, meat, and even leather. There are various breeds of cattle, each suited to different purposes. Dairy cows, beef cattle, and dual-purpose breeds (suitable for both meat and milk) are common choices.

Popular Cattle Breeds:

Holstein: Primarily a dairy breed known for high milk production.

Angus: Popular for beef production, known for tender, high-quality meat.

Hereford: Another beef breed known for its docile temperament and efficient growth.

Care Considerations:

Space: Cattle need plenty of space to roam and graze. A few acres of pasture are generally required for grazing.

Feeding: Cattle typically graze on grass but may require supplemental feeding, especially during winter months.

Shelter: While cattle are hardy animals, they need some form of shelter or shade to protect them from extreme weather conditions.

2. Pigs

Pigs are commonly raised for meat production (pork) and are known for their intelligence and quick growth. They can be raised on small farms or large commercial operations.

Popular Pig Breeds:

Yorkshire: Known for its fast growth and ability to adapt to various climates.

Berkshire: Valued for its marbled meat, which produces a tender and flavorful pork.

Landrace: Another popular breed for pork production due to its high fertility and good meat yield.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Pigs need secure housing to protect them from predators and the elements. Pens or barns are commonly used.

Feeding: Pigs are omnivores and require a balanced diet that can include grains, vegetables, and protein sources.

Space: Pigs need plenty of room to root around and exercise. If raised on pasture, they can be rotated to different areas to avoid overgrazing.

3. Chickens

Chickens are one of the most popular farm animals, primarily raised for their eggs and meat. They are relatively easy to care for and require minimal space, making them a great option for both small farms and large-scale operations.

Popular Chicken Breeds:

Rhode Island Red: Known for high egg production and hardiness.

Leghorn: A prolific egg layer, especially in commercial egg farms.

Cornish: Primarily raised for meat, known for rapid growth and large size.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Chickens need a secure coop to protect them from predators and weather conditions. It should also provide nesting boxes for egg-laying.

Diet: Chickens eat grains, seeds, and insects. They also benefit from supplemental calcium for strong eggshells.

Space: Chickens need room to roam, scratch, and forage. Free-range chickens are often healthier and happier but still require a secure coop at night.

4. Goats

Goats are versatile farm animals that can be raised for milk, meat, or fiber. They are social animals and are often kept in pairs or small groups.

Popular Goat Breeds:

Nubian: A popular milk breed with high butterfat content in its milk.

Boer: Primarily raised for meat production due to their rapid growth and large size.

Angora: Raised for their fiber, which is used to produce mohair.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Goats need a shelter that protects them from rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. They should also have access to secure fencing to prevent them from escaping.

Feeding: Goats are herbivores and need access to fresh forage like grass and hay. They can also eat grains and need fresh water at all times.

Space: Goats need plenty of space to graze and exercise. They are known to be escape artists, so fencing must be secure.

5. Sheep

Sheep are raised for their wool, meat (lamb or mutton), and milk. They are hardy animals and are well-suited for grazing on pastures.

Popular Sheep Breeds:

Merino: Known for high-quality wool and hardiness.

Suffolk: A meat breed known for its large size and good growth rate.

Dorset: Known for their excellent lambing ability and quality meat.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Sheep need a secure shelter to protect them from predators and weather conditions. They can be kept in barns or open sheds.

Feeding: Sheep are herbivores and primarily graze on grass, but they may need supplemental hay during the winter months.

Fencing: Sheep require strong fencing, as they can be prone to escaping or wandering off.

6. Horses

Horses are often kept for riding, work, and companionship. They are also used for livestock management, racing, and other activities.

Popular Horse Breeds:

Arabian: Known for their endurance and agility, often used for long-distance riding.

Thoroughbred: Popular in racing and equestrian sports.

Clydesdale: A draft breed, known for its large size and strength, often used for farm work.

Care Considerations:

Space: Horses need a lot of space to roam and graze. A few acres of pasture are generally required for grazing and exercise.

Diet: Horses primarily eat grass and hay, but they may need supplemental grains and minerals, especially if they are being worked or bred.

Shelter: Horses require a shelter to protect them from harsh weather conditions, but they do well outside in temperate climates.

7. Alpacas

Alpacas are primarily raised for their soft fleece, which is used to make high-quality textiles. They are gentle and easy to handle, making them popular for small farms or hobby farms.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Alpacas need a secure shelter from extreme weather conditions and enough space to roam and graze.

Diet: Alpacas are herbivores and graze on grass and hay. They may also need supplemental minerals and vitamins.

Social Animals: Alpacas are social creatures and should not be kept alone. They do best in small herds.

8. Llamas

Llamas are larger than alpacas and are often kept as pack animals or for their wool. They are intelligent and can be trained to carry loads, making them useful for farming or hiking.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Llamas require a dry, clean shelter and plenty of space to roam. They are hardy animals but should be protected from extreme cold and wet conditions.

Diet: Llamas are herbivores and primarily graze on grass and hay.

Social Animals: Like alpacas, llamas are social and should be kept with other llamas or farm animals.

9. Rabbits

Rabbits are often raised for meat, fiber (such as Angora wool), or as pets. They are easy to care for and do not require much space, making them an excellent option for smaller farms or homesteads.

Care Considerations:

Housing: Rabbits require a secure hutch or cage with plenty of room to hop around. They also need access to fresh bedding and a safe, dry area.

Diet: Rabbits are herbivores and primarily eat hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of fruit.

Space: Rabbits should be allowed to exercise outside their cage regularly to stay healthy.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing Farm Animals:

Space: Ensure that you have enough space for the animals you plan to purchase. Many farm animals require large areas to roam and graze.

Legal Restrictions: Some animals may require special permits or have local regulations. Make sure to check with local authorities about any restrictions or permits needed to keep farm animals.

Time and Commitment: Farm animals require daily care, feeding, and attention. Consider the time and effort needed to care for them before making a purchase.

Breeders and Sellers: When purchasing farm animals, ensure you are buying from a reputable breeder or seller. Look for breeders who prioritize animal welfare and health.

Vet Care: Have access to a vet who specializes in livestock care. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and health monitoring are essential for the well-being of your animals.

Conclusion:

Farm animals for sale can be a rewarding addition to your homestead or farm, whether you're looking for livestock to produce meat, milk, or wool, or simply for companionship and fun. From cattle and pigs to chickens, goats, and alpacas, there are a wide variety of animals available for sale. By considering your available space, time, and resources, you can ensure that you choose the right farm animals for your needs and provide them with a healthy, happy life. Always research the care requirements for each species before purchasing and consider adopting from a rescue or reputable breeder to ensure the health and well-being of the animals.