At dawn in the snowy forests of the Greater Hinggan Range of the Chinese mainland, a hush falls over frosty plains. Suddenly, the pen gate swings open, and a lively herd of reindeer charges into the white expanse. This annual release, practiced by the Ewenki people for centuries, celebrates a living tradition of semi-wild herding—a testament to the deep bond between humans and nature.
For the Ewenki, one of the ethnic groups in the Chinese mainland, reindeer are more than livestock; they are partners in survival and symbols of cultural identity. By adopting a "semi-wild" approach, herders allow the animals to graze freely through vast woodlands while maintaining vital connections—marking migration paths, checking health, and guiding them back to winter camps.
Data from local conservation teams show that semi-wild herding supports both reindeer populations and forest ecosystems. Reindeer grazing patterns help disperse plant seeds, while regulated human interaction ensures balanced herd sizes—an elegant model of sustainable coexistence.
Beyond environmental benefits, the ritual sparks community spirit. Elders pass down ancestral knowledge, young families join in the dawn release, and visitors glimpse a tradition that bridges past and future.
In a world facing rapid change, the Ewenki's reindeer release offers a reminder: when people and wildlife flourish together, both thrive.
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Reindeer release into snowy woods: A gift from Greater Hinggan Range
cgtn.com
