Abstract

This is a qualitative investigation with three aims: 1) to investigate the background and traditional knowledge of raising buffaloes in Thailand, 2) to analyze the development of buffalo-raising in Thailand, and 3) to develop a model of keeping patterns for conserving buffaloes in Thailand. Document and field data were collected from eight buffalo conservation communities in Thailand by means of basic survey, interview, observation, and focus group discussion. The results show that traditional knowledge and development of buffalo conservation in Thailand occurred in order to create cultural tourism activities and find ways to employ increasingly obsolete agricultural animals. Further development of keeping patterns for conserving buffaloes in Thailand requires the integration of several techniques, including standardization of buffalo pens, feed preparation, selective breeding, and organization of regular veterinary health checks. These developments will allow buffalo conservation to progress and continue to protect traditional community heritage.