Khan Khentii Wildlife Area, Mandal, Mongolia
This site, which is contiguous with Gorkhi- Terelj National Park, is an area of great natural beauty lying between the Daurian steppes and the Siberian taiga. Altitudinal variation at the site is significant, leading to the development of different habitats, including boreal forest (taiga), forest-steppe, steppe and tundra.
The area is rich in rivers and streams, including tributaries of the Onon, Kherlen and Tuul Rivers. Many fine riparian forests are distributed along rivers, while deciduous and coniferous forests occupy large areas at high elevations. Over 30% of Mongolia’s forest resources are found in the Khentii Mountains. The site has been held in high esteem by Mongolians for centuries. A state ceremony is held every year for Burkhan Khaldun Mountain, which has been a sacred site since the time of Chinggis Khan.
Pine nut collection has become a major threat to biodiversity, because thousands of nut collectors damage large number of trees every year and are presumed to be the cause of forest fires. Every year, forest fires destroy many hectares of forest. Poaching for animals, including globally and nationally threatened species, is widespread. The impacts of mining and timber extraction are also of major concern.
Epic Mongolia Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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