Black Yak Cattle Co. rancher trains yaks for riding

Jamie Kamps, owner of Black Yak Cattle Co. near Salmon Arm, British Columbia, is diversifying the use of her Tibetan yak herd. While the approximately 30 yaks on her farm are primarily raised for grass-finished meat, wool, and fiber, Kamps is training a young yak named Toro to become a riding and pack animal.

Kamps noted that yaks are relatively uncommon in Canada, with an estimated population of only 1,000. She observed that the animals possess a calm temperament and high trainability, making them suitable for tasks beyond the meat market. Toro, currently about one-and-a-half years old, is expected to be able to carry a rider by age two. Kamps suggested that the animals' physical build, including a hump that accommodates western saddles, makes them effective for riding, pulling sleighs, or carrying loads.