© Undram R.
Saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica)
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© WWF-Mongolia / Ts.Tuyatsatsral
Saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica) calf.
FACTSHEET ON MONGOLIAN SAIGA ANTELOPE
The Saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica mongolica) is the most threatened and endemic ungulate species. It is one of two sub-species of Saiga; the other (S. t. tatarica) is distributed in Russia and Central Asia.
Common Name: Mongolian Saiga
Scientific Name: Saiga tatarica mongolica
Distribution: Sharga Mankhan Natural Reserve established in 1994, Great Lakes Basin, Western Mongolia, Altai Sayan Eco-region’s Mongolian Part
Population: Saiga survives in only two populations in the Great Lakes basin area of Mongolia. Population of Mongolian Saiga has decreased dramatically over the last 20 years (1980-2003) of 1500-2500 animals occupying only less than 1/5 of its historical range. Once reached 5000 heads in early 1990s, a dramatic population crash to less than 800-1500 animals followed in subsequent years due to an absence of conservation measures coupled with harsh climatic conditions.
Conservation Status:
• “Very Rare” per Law on Fauna (2000);
• “Critically Endangered” per IUCN Red List (2006),
• CITES Appendix II (1994)
Main threats:
• Habitat competition with livestock;
• Poaching;
• Frequent extreme natural conditions (cold winters and droughts)
