• The Himalayan yak (Bos mutus) is a large wild bovid native to the Himalayas.
• It is the lifeline of pastoral nomads in high altitudes of the Indian Himalayan region.
• Yaks provide nomads milk, fiber and meat.
• The long hair of yak has water-resistant properties and can be a good packing material.
• According to IUCN Red list the yak is in the vulnerable category.
• It is facing the threat of gradually rising temperatures in the region.
• Yak is accustomed to very cold temperatures and can survive up to minus 40 degrees but finds is difficult when the temperature crosses 13 degrees.
• Yak is susceptible to heat stress as it can efficiently conserve its body heat during cold weather conditions but has minimal body mechanism to dissipate heat by way of sweating.
• Yak rearing needs to be preserved as this is the only source of livelihood for nomads.
• Yak rearing is an eco-friendly livelihood for nomads who migrate to higher altitudes during summer and return to lower altitudes at about 3000 meters above sea level during winters.
• In addition to climate-related factors, there is a reduction in grazing areas and degradation of pasturelands due to various developmental activities as well.

Source:Hindubusinessline