Nyagrong Yak

Nyagrong Yak

The Nyagrong yak is a geographical indication certification trademark.

　　Nyagrong yak – Nyagrong County Animal Husbandry Station

　　Yak characteristics: Strong body, coarse and long hair, a short tail with long hair resembling a horse’s tail, and dense, long hair covering the belly and lower torso that forms a skirt-like shape, helping it stay warm even when lying in snow. Its hooves have hardened, horseshoe-like raised edges, allowing it to walk easily on rugged mountain trails. Its upper lip is thin and flexible, enabling it to graze on low-growing grass. The majority of yaks are black in color. Crossbreeds with common cattle are called dzo (male) or dzomo (female), but male dzo are sterile.

　　The yak is a unique bovine species living on alpine grasslands at elevations above 3,000 meters, mainly distributed across the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and adjacent regions.

　　Some say the yak is a treasure trove of resources – and they’re absolutely right. Not only can yaks serve as highly effective means of transport, carrying people and goods, but their meat is also tender, unlike the tougher meat of yellow or water buffalo. Yak hide can be made into clothing, boots, bags, and more; the head can be crafted into handicrafts; the tail can be turned into brooms; and the penis is considered a tonic for male vitality. Diqing yaks, which live year-round at altitudes above 3,500 meters where many wild medicinal plants such as Fritillaria and cordyceps grow, often feed on these herbs, resulting in exceptionally delicious meat. When slaughtered, the meat can be stir-fried, braised, stewed, or air-dried into jerky, all with unique flavors. Eating yak meat in Diqing is truly a delight. Dried yak meat and meat floss can also be purchased at markets as thoughtful gifts for family and friends.