When you think of desert wildlife, you most likely think of camels. However, the Gobi Desert, situated in southern Mongolia, is home to numerous wildlife species significant to this region. As with the rest of Mongolia, temperatures here can drop as low as −40°F (−40°C) in winter and climb over 40°C (104°F) in summer. Yet, despite the extreme temperatures, the Gobi Desert is home to animals suited for the climate. Here are some animals found in this harsh yet stunning setting.

Bactrian Camel

Unlike the single-humped Arabian camel, the Bactrian camel has two humps. The Bactrian camel stores fat and energy in its humps, allowing this animal to go long periods without water. However, contrary to its counterparts, the Bactrian camel has a thick woolen coat to protect from the harsh Gobi winters. This coat is then shed as temperatures rise in the warmer months.

Snow Leopard

Nestled in the mountain ranges of the Gobi, specifically the Altai Mountain range, you’ll find the exquisite snow leopard. The snow leopards’ iconic light-colored and spotted fur coats allow them to camouflage with the snowy mountains and rocky landscape. A highly endangered species, this rare and beautiful animal is the top predator in the Gobi, largely feasting on Gobi ibex. Although they are apex predators, snow leopards are surprisingly shy and not known to be aggressive toward humans.

Golden Eagle

Not all wildlife in the Gobi is on land. The golden eagle, widely celebrated during Mongolia’s yearly festivals, is known to soar high in the skies of the Gobi Desert and build nests at higher altitudes. Golden eagles are similar in size to bald eagles, with similar wingspans and weighing over 3-7 kilograms (6-15 pounds). However, in contrast to the bald eagle’s white head, the golden eagle has a brown head with a golden nape and feathered legs. Their feathers also remain darker and have hints of white, giving the golden eagles a magnificent appearance as they soar overhead.

Mazaalai

The Mazaalai, a species of brown bear that lives in Gobi desert, is the most endangered bear species in the world. According to 2022 statistics, only 51 specimens have been documented in the wild. These bears mostly eat roots, berries and small rodents that is occasionally found in the Gobi desert. As a matter of fact, only 8 percent of their diets consist of animal protein. Conservation efforts to keep them in their wild habitat started way back in 1985.

Dinosaurs

Although dinosaurs are extinct, the Gobi Desert is a valuable site for dinosaur fossils. The American Museum of Natural History first discovered dinosaur eggs in the Gobi during an expedition in the 1920s. The location of this find, the Flaming Cliffs, now draws in tourists and paleontologists alike to visit remains of an age gone by. Want to see these animals and other wildlife in one of the top Mongolia destinations? Check out our Gobi Desert Tour today!