Mongolia, a landlocked nation in Central Asia, is known for its immense landscapes and rich natural heritage. Its unique geographical position fosters a remarkable variety of ecosystems. From towering mountains to expansive deserts and sweeping grasslands, Mongolia offers diverse environments that support an array of animal life.
Iconic and Unique Mammals
The Snow Leopard ( Panthera uncia ) inhabits rugged mountain ranges, including the Altai Mountains. Its thick, spotted fur provides camouflage in rocky, snowy terrain, and it preys on mountain ungulates like ibex and argali sheep. With a global population estimated between 2,500 and 10,000 individuals, Mongolia holds a substantial portion of the global population.
The Wild Bactrian Camel ( Camelus ferus ), known locally as Khavtgai, is an endangered species found in the remote Gobi Desert. These two-humped camels are adapted to extreme temperatures, ranging from -40°C in winter to over 40°C in summer. They can consume brackish water and store fat in their humps for energy, allowing them to survive long periods without food. Fewer than 1,000 wild Bactrian camels remain, with a smaller population in Mongolia’s Great Gobi A Strictly Protected Area.
Przewalski’s Horse ( Equus ferus przewalskii ), or Takhi, is the only wild horse species. Once extinct in the wild, these stocky horses with short legs and an upright mane have been successfully reintroduced to the grasslands of Mongolia, notably in Hustai National Park. They possess 66 chromosomes, two more than domestic horses.
The Mongolian Gazelle ( Procapra gutturosa ) roams the vast steppes, often forming herds of thousands. These medium-sized antelopes, with a reddish-yellow coat that lightens in winter, undertake extensive seasonal migrations in search of pasture and water. They are swift runners, reaching speeds up to 65 km/h, and can jump up to 6 meters high. Their population, estimated around 1 million, is one of the largest among ungulates.
The Argali Sheep ( Ovis ammon ) is the largest wild sheep species globally, found in the high mountain ranges of Mongolia, including the Altai, Hangai, and Khangai mountains. Males are characterized by massive, spiraling horns that can measure over 1.25 meters. These herbivores possess keen eyesight and a strong sense of smell, allowing them to detect predators and sprint at speeds of 50-60 km/h.
Diverse Habitats and Their Inhabitants
Mongolia’s diverse geography creates distinct ecological zones, each supporting a unique collection of wildlife.
The Gobi Desert, spanning southern Mongolia, is a land of extremes. This arid region hosts the Gobi bear (Mazaalai), an endangered subspecies of brown bear with fewer than 50 individuals. The Gobi also supports various reptiles, such as the Gobi viper, and birds like the Golden Eagle, which soars high above seeking prey. Mongolian wild asses, also known as Khulan, are also found here, capable of covering vast distances in search of sparse vegetation.
The expansive Steppe grasslands, particularly in Eastern Mongolia, are home to the Mongolian gazelle. This habitat also harbors the Pallas’s cat (Manul), a small feline with dense, silvery-grey fur and a flat face, adapted for hunting small mammals and birds. Other inhabitants include rodents like Siberian marmots and Daurian hedgehogs, as well as predators such as grey wolves and corsac foxes. Birds like the Demoiselle Crane and the Saker Falcon also frequent these open plains.
The Altai Mountains in western Mongolia provide a rugged habitat for various animals. These peaks are home to the Siberian ibex (Capra sibirica), agile mountain goats that navigate the steep terrain. Brown bears are also found here, foraging for vegetation and preying on smaller animals. Birds of prey, including the Cinereous vulture, with its 3.5-meter wingspan, are commonly seen soaring over the mountain ranges. Forest-steppe regions in the north support species like red deer and wild boar.
Protecting Mongolia’s Unique Wildlife
Safeguarding Mongolia’s unique animal species is a primary focus, given the various pressures on their habitats. Efforts involve addressing threats such as habitat degradation, often caused by increased livestock numbers competing for food and space. Climate change impacts, leading to extreme weather events like harsh winters known as “dzuds,” also pose a risk to wildlife populations. Illegal hunting and trade in animal products, including fur and body parts, further complicate conservation efforts.
Conservation initiatives in Mongolia often involve establishing and maintaining protected areas, which are important for the survival of many species. Organizations like WWF-Mongolia and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) collaborate with local communities and rangers to implement science-based conservation programs. These programs include monitoring wildlife populations, protecting water sources, and promoting sustainable grazing practices among nomadic herders. Community engagement, including citizen science initiatives, helps foster a shared responsibility for Mongolia’s wildlife.