Nenets

arctic · indigenous · reindeer herders · russian culture

Master reindeer herders. The Nenets have lived in the Russian Arctic for centuries, herding large groups of reindeer across the frozen tundra. They follow the reindeer as the animals migrate with the seasons, moving their camps and homes throughout the year.

Traditional tent homes. Nenets families live in portable tents called chums, which they can take apart and move as they travel with their reindeer herds. These structures keep them warm and protected in one of the coldest places on Earth.

Unique languages. The Nenets speak either Tundra or Forest Nenets languages, which are their own special ways of communicating. These languages have been passed down through their families for generations and are part of their culture.

Arctic homeland. Most Nenets live in northern Russia near the Arctic Circle, in places called the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug and the Nenets Autonomous Okrug. Their lands stretch along the Arctic Ocean coastline, where it is extremely cold and snowy.

Facing big challenges. Today, oil and gas companies and government activities threaten the Nenets' traditional way of life and their Arctic environment. Many Nenets are working together to protect their lands and culture for the future.