<b>Smallholder Farmers' Perceptions of Climate Variability and Livestock Adaptability in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa</b>

Climate variability poses significant challenges for livestock farming, especially in areas where smallholder farmers depend on it. This study investigated farmers' perceptions of climate variability, validated these perceptions with empirical data, and assessed their perceptions of livestock species' adaptability. A cross-sectional survey of 495 livestock farmers in the Eastern Cape was conducted using a multistage sampling technique. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire and validated against climate data obtained from the South African Weather Services. Analysis involved descriptive statistics, trend analysis, and weighted rank indices. Findings reveal that farmers have observed reduced precipitation and rising temperatures over the past 20 years, aligning with empirical data showing increased temperatures and decreased rainfall. These climatic changes pose severe risks, including drought and low water levels, that impact productivity and household welfare. Farmers prefer goats, indigenous chickens, and sheep for their perceived resilience to heat, water scarcity, and feed shortages, reflecting their adaptive strategies. However, limited access to essential support services may hinder their ability to utilise these resilient options. The study recommends enhancing support for farmers by improving access to climate data, resources, and adaptation services, and by strengthening collaborations between farmers and meteorological institutions.