Socio-cultural motives drive free-range livestock farming in Estonia

European landscapes have developed into biocultural heritage over millennia of extensive livestock production. Much of this biodiversity and cultural richness has been preserved by small-scale farms; however, these farms are disappearing across Europe due to intense competition with industrial agriculture. Recognizing the interconnectedness of social and natural systems, this study examined the socio-cultural background of livestock keepers in Estonia. The main research question focused on understanding the context in which livestock keepers decide to begin or continue free-range livestock farming, viewed through the lens of culture and tradition.

An anonymous, voluntary online survey was conducted among beef cattle and sheep keepers in Estonia, who are the primary users of semi-natural grasslands. In total, 88 completed questionnaires were received and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods.

Nearly one-third of respondents reported continuing a family tradition of livestock keeping. However, 62% of respondents had no prior experience in agriculture before starting their activities, and 58% managed only a single type of agricultural animal. The most frequently reported emotional motive was the desire to maintain aesthetically pleasing landscapes around their homes through grazing (74% of respondents). In addition, 56% of respondents indicated that grazing is the most effective management practice for their farmland. The most commonly cited constraints preventing herd expansion were the lack of additional pastures and the inability to manage larger herds. A slight majority of livestock keepers valued the preservation of national culture, and nearly 40% considered local knowledge, such as unwritten rules, important in their farming practices. Furthermore, more than half of respondents reported the presence of a natural area near their farm that they regard as sensitive or sacred. Livestock keepers generally do not celebrate any specific holidays associated with the traditional folk calendar; the only customary practise reported was giving bread to animals during the Christmas season. Moreover, 76% of respondents declared that they do not engage in any historically significant magical protection rituals aimed at safeguarding their livestock.

Grazing in heritage grasslands supported by nature conservation subsidies is increasingly carried out by a new generation of livestock keepers who are establishing their own traditions. To effectively understand and communicate with livestock keepers, it is essential to consider their socio-cultural background and the motives underlying their decisions. We conclude that, when transitioning to an agroecological system, livestock keepers are strongly motivated by the pursuit of personal well-being, which in turn contributes to the overall health of the environment and society. Supporting the social well-being of farmers therefore requires expanding the concept of livestock keepers as custodians of biodiversity beyond protected areas and recognizing the value of their everyday practices, which play a crucial role in slowing the decline of small farms and traditional livestock farming practices.