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Yörük traditions in Akseki face economic shifts as animal hair loses value
In the Akseki district of Antalya, Yörük families continue to practice traditional livestock rearing by migrating to high-altitude plateaus, such as Yarpuz, during the summer months. A central part of this seasonal routine is the traditional shearing of sheep and goats, a process that typically takes 10 to 15 days and is carried out through communal cooperation among family members and neighbors.
While shearing is essential for animal hygiene, comfort, and health, the economic value of the animal hair has significantly declined. Historically, goat and sheep hair were valuable commodities used for weaving rugs, making sacks, and constructing tents. However, local producers report that buyers no longer visit the plateaus, leading to the hair being discarded as waste rather than being sold for profit.
The tradition serves as both a practical necessity for animal welfare and a cultural ritual that maintains social solidarity within the Yörük community, even as the commercial utility of their products fades.
Entities
Akseki · Bayram Yüksel · Mehmet Kara · Yarpuz Yaylası · Yörük
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Shearing helps animals feel more comfortable and improves hygiene by reducing lice and fleas. www.karsmanset.com · www.haberport.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Goat and sheep hair was previously a significant source of income, but there are currently no buyers. www.karsmanset.com · www.gazetebirlik.com · www.haberport.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Yörük families move to high-altitude plateaus like Yarpuz around early June and return in late September. www.karsmanset.com · www.haberport.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The shearing process typically lasts between 10 and 15 days depending on the size of the herd. www.karsmanset.com · www.gazetebirlik.com · www.haberport.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Animal hair was historically used for weaving rugs and constructing tents. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.haberport.com