First Record and Ethnozoological Description of Two Traditional Agricultural Tools from Türkiye: Elcek and Elçek

Ethnozoology, Türkiye

Abstract

This study is based on fieldwork conducted as part of three separate projects supported by the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (Türkiye). The main objective of these projects was to document "Traditional Knowledge Based on Biological Diversity." Between 2017 and 2021, field studies were carried out in the provinces of Ardahan, Erzurum, Gümüşhane, and Kars, which led to the identification of two traditional agricultural tools based on ethnozoology, namely "Elcek" and "Elçek." Notably, these agricultural tools had not been previously documented in the literature and are introduced for the first time through this research. The study provides detailed descriptions of each traditional agricultural tool, including their history, areas of use, raw materials, materials used, construction techniques, and prevalence. Visual representations, including original photographs and 3D scans, are also included to showcase the fundamental components of each tool. It is noted that Elcek was commonly used until the 2000s but is no longer in use today, while Elçek remains actively used in many provinces. This research significantly contributes to Turkey's heritage of traditional agricultural tools and enriches the field of ethnozoology. The discovery of unique and rare agricultural tools like Elcek and Elçek provides valuable insights into Turkey's agricultural culture and history. Additionally, this study highlights the importance of preserving and passing down traditional agricultural tools to future generations.