Shearing day: a day of work and joy

While in Ciociaria, and especially in the Aurunci, the sheep population has drastically decreased —instead— in the neighbouring Molise (e.g. at the foothills of Mount Matese) shepherds still own herds of up to 500 animals and more. Every year, on springtime, local shepherds seek the service of professional shearers, some of them from the southern Apulia region. For pastoralists, to join shearing is also an opportunity for reciprocating a favour received, as well as for strengthening solidarity networks. Pastoralists from Aurunci and Ciociaria visit their counterparts in Molise and help them during these days of intense work.   The last day ends with a hearty lunch offered by the Molisan shepherds, composed of pasta, cheese, meat, local cakes and brightened up by the sound of bagpipes and barrel organs.