Mongolia is home to more than 130 species of mammals, over 430 species of birds, and around 75 species of fish. This rich biodiversity makes the country an important habitat for wildlife across Central and North Asia.
Mongolian Wildlife Gallery
From the rare Gobi bear to the steppe wolf, golden eagle, wild horse and taimen fish, discover some of the animals that make Mongolia’s landscapes so unique.
Iconic Wildlife of Mongolia
Argali Sheep
The argali is the world’s largest wild sheep and one of Mongolia’s most iconic mountain animals. It is mainly found in the Altai, Gobi-Altai, and other remote rocky highland regions.
Siberian Ibex
Known for its long curved horns and agility on steep cliffs, the ibex is one of the best-known wild mountain ungulates in western Mongolia.
Red Deer (Maral)
Found in forest and forest-steppe regions, red deer are among Mongolia’s most impressive large mammals. They are especially active and noticeable during the autumn rutting season.
Wild Boar
Wild boars live mainly in forested valleys, riverbanks, and wetland areas, especially in northern parts of the country.
The Largest Predators in Mongolia
Brown Bear
The brown bear is one of the largest predators found in Mongolia, especially in forested mountain areas of Khuvsgul, Khentii, and parts of the Altai region.
Gray Wolf
Wolves are widespread across Mongolia’s steppe, mountain, and desert regions. They hold an important place in both the country’s ecosystems and nomadic cultural traditions.
Eurasian Lynx
A secretive forest predator, the lynx is less frequently seen but remains an important part of Mongolia’s wildlife.
Snow Leopard
One of Mongolia’s most famous and rare predators, the snow leopard inhabits remote high mountain ranges and is fully protected.
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Fur-Bearing and Smaller Mammals
Common Species
- Red fox
- Corsac fox
- Hare
- Marmot
- Sable and related small carnivores
- Other steppe and forest small mammals
Notes
- Species differ greatly by habitat, from taiga and forest to steppe and semi-desert
- Some species once had stronger hunting importance, but conservation is now increasingly important
- Marmots in particular are subject to strong restrictions in many areas
Birdlife and Waterfowl
Mongolia lies along major migration routes and supports a wide range of birdlife. Lakes, wetlands, rivers, steppes, and mountain valleys all provide important habitats.
Waterfowl
Ducks, geese, swans, and other water birds are found across Mongolia’s lakes and river systems.
Birds of Prey
Eagles, falcons, hawks, and other raptors are among the most admired birds in Mongolia.
Steppe Birds
Cranes, bustards, larks, and many grassland bird species are part of Mongolia’s open landscape ecology.
Fish Species of Mongolia
Taimen
Taimen is Mongolia’s most famous fish and one of the largest salmonid species in the world. In many areas it is strictly protected under catch-and-release rules.
Grayling
A popular cold-water species found in clear rivers and northern waters, especially valued in sport fishing.
Whitefish
Found mainly in northern lakes and river systems, whitefish are an important part of Mongolia’s freshwater ecosystems.
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General Information on Seasons and Permits
Wildlife-related activities in Mongolia are regulated by law. Protected areas, special permits, local quotas, and conservation rules all play an important role. Some animal species are fully protected, while others may be subject to seasonal restrictions or special permission.
- Protected species cannot be hunted or disturbed
- Some fishing areas require strict catch-and-release practice
- Local rules may vary by province, season, and protected area status
- Travelers should always check current legal conditions before planning specialized outdoor activities
Protected and Rare Species
Mongolia is also home to some of Asia’s rarest animals, including the snow leopard, Gobi bear, Przewalski’s horse, and several important bird species. These animals are part of Mongolia’s natural heritage and are protected under conservation law.
This page is for educational travel guide purposes. Wildlife watching, fishing, photography, and all nature-based travel activities in Mongolia should follow national law, protected area rules, and local conservation guidance.
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