Water buffalo breeding in the Greek peninsula

Water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) breeding on the Greek peninsula has held an important place in the region’s rural economy, particularly during the early 20th century. In areas such as Thrace, Macedonia, and Thessaly, raising these animals was a significant aspect of agricultural life. Although by the late 1950s Greece had a substantial population of around 70,000 water buffaloes, the situation changed dramatically by the early 1990s. The abandonment of this type of livestock farming led to a steep decline in numbers, with the population dropping to just 600 animals. In 1997, the integration of the Greek water buffalo into EU conservation programs for indigenous and endangered breeds highlighted the importance of preserving this rare species. Furthermore, the founding of the Greek Water Buffalo Breeders’ Cooperative in 2004 aimed to promote the Greek water buffalo across the country and to support activities focused on the genetic improvement of the species. These efforts gave new momentum to water buffalo farming in Greece, supporting the preservation of this significant livestock breed.

Pictured: Livestock farmer with water buffaloes in Kalochori, Thessaloniki, early 20th century. ©Folklore Association of Kalochorians of Eastern and Northern Thrace “Kaskarka”