Mongolia is defined by an extreme continental climate and vast, untouched landscapes that host a unique array of wildlife. Low human population density allows diverse ecosystems to persist, ranging from the world’s largest intact temperate grasslands to high mountain ranges and the arid Gobi Desert. These varied environments support distinct and highly specialized fauna, many found nowhere else on Earth. This biological diversity makes Mongolia a globally significant habitat for species adapted to survive harsh, fluctuating conditions.
Fauna of the Vast Mongolian Steppe
The Eastern Mongolian Steppe is one of the planet’s largest remaining temperate grassland ecosystems, providing habitat for immense herds of grazing mammals. The Mongolian Gazelle, known locally as the Dzeren (Procapra gutturosa), is the most numerous large mammal and undertakes large-scale migrations across the open plains. They can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, an adaptation that helps them evade predators.
Przewalski’s Horse, or Takhi (Equus ferus przewalskii), is the only truly wild horse species that has never been domesticated. Although extinct in the wild for decades, the Takhi was successfully reintroduced to the steppe, notably in protected areas like Hustai National Park. This stocky equine possesses a short, strong body and a reddish-brown coat that thickens for the harsh Mongolian winters.
The open plains also support specialized predators and smaller mammals. The Grey Wolf (Canis lupus) maintains its role as the top predator, often preying on the large herds of gazelles and livestock. Smaller carnivores, such as the Corsac Fox (Vulpes corsac), use their excellent hearing to locate rodents and other small prey in the tall grass. The Siberian Marmot (Marmota sibirica), a large ground squirrel, is a common inhabitant of the steppe, living in extensive burrow systems.
Specialized Wildlife of the Gobi Desert
The southern region of Mongolia transitions into the Gobi Desert, an environment of extreme temperature fluctuations and aridity. The Gobi Bear, or Mazaalai (Ursus arctos gobiensis), is a unique subspecies of the brown bear and one of the rarest mammals globally, with fewer than 50 individuals estimated in the wild. This elusive omnivore survives on roots, berries, and small rodents, making it the only desert-adapted bear species in the world. The Wild Bactrian Camel (Camelus ferus) is another critically endangered specialist, genetically distinct from its domestic counterpart. These two-humped giants are highly resilient, capable of surviving on salty water and enduring prolonged periods without food or fresh water.
The Mongolian Saiga Antelope (Saiga tatarica mongolica) inhabits the semi-arid edges of the Gobi, distinguished by its unusual, tubular-shaped nose. This nasal structure helps filter dust and regulate body temperature in the extreme climate. The arid lands are also home to smaller, nocturnal creatures, such as the Long-eared Jerboa (Euchoreutes naso). This hopping desert rodent has disproportionately large ears and hind legs, adaptations that allow it to dissipate heat and move swiftly across the sandy terrain.
Species of the Altai Mountains and Northern Forests
The Altai Mountains in the west and the taiga forests in the north harbor species adapted to high altitude and dense cover. The Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) is the most iconic resident of the rugged Altai range, perfectly camouflaged by its thick, mottled coat. This elusive cat possesses a long, heavy tail that aids balance on steep, rocky slopes as it hunts its prey. The mountainous terrain is also home to two species of large wild ungulates. The Siberian Ibex (Capra sibirica), a wild goat with massive, curved horns, navigates the steepest cliffs and is typically found above the tree line. The Argali Sheep (Ovis ammon), the world’s largest wild sheep, prefers the gentler mountain slopes and high plateaus.
In the northern forests near the Siberian border, the environment shifts to include species like the Siberian Musk Deer (Moschus moschiferus) and the Altai Wapiti, a subspecies of elk. The vast airspace above the mountains is patrolled by large raptors, including the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) and the Bearded Vulture (Gypaetus barbatus). These birds of prey play a crucial role in the ecosystem, and the Golden Eagle also holds deep cultural significance.
Conservation Status and Cultural Significance
Many of Mongolia’s unique animals face serious threats, leading to their inclusion in conservation programs. Critically endangered species like the Gobi Bear and the Wild Bactrian Camel have their small populations constantly monitored and protected. The Snow Leopard is also listed as endangered globally. Conservation efforts face challenges from habitat loss, poaching, and climate change, which exacerbates harsh winter events known as dzud. These dzud events cause massive livestock die-offs, intensifying competition between domestic animals and wildlife for grazing resources.
Despite these pressures, the animals of Mongolia are deeply woven into the fabric of nomadic life and national identity. The Takhi (Przewalski’s Horse) is a powerful symbol of resilience. The horse is central to the culture, often referred to as the “spirit horse,” and the Golden Eagle holds a special place in the western Altai region, where hunting with trained eagles is practiced.