Mixed grazing is a management practice that integrates different animal species (most commonly cattle, horses, and small ruminants) on the same pasture, either simultaneously or in alternation. This approach enhances forage resource utilisation, reduces parasitism, and improves agrobiodiversity.

Historically widespread, mixed grazing has gradually declined with the increasing specialization of livestock farms. Nevertheless, it contributes to an integrated approach to livestock systems and offers numerous benefits, particularly well documented in ruminants:

• Optimised utilisation of forage resources : Different species exploit different vegetation strata and botanical species. This partitioning of resources helps reduce grazing refusal areas, increases the proportion of biomass effectively consumed, and strengthens forage self-sufficiency.
• Reduction of gastrointestinal parasite pressure (strongyles) : This effect is particularly marked in small ruminants due to the dilution mechanism. As many parasites are host-specific, ingestion of larvae by a non-susceptible species interrupts their life cycle. This natural regulation limits infestations, reduces the use of antiparasitic drugs and slows down the development of resistance (see integrated animal health management).
• Enhancement of biodiversity : In permanent pastures with spontaneous flora, mixed grazing contributes to better control of dominant plant species, thereby increasing plant diversity and attracting associated fauna (pollinators, birds). This diversity strengthens the functional resilience of grasslands against climatic variability and pathogenic pressures.

However, this practice requires careful oversight: animal species have different needs, making it necessary to adapt infrastructure (supplementary feeding, water access, fencing) and to maintain a balanced species ratio to fully benefit from the system.

In conclusion, mixed grazing aligns with an agroecological approach, as it enhances the resilience of livestock systems and supports One Health principles.