Goals:
The goal of the Mongolia project was to develop local capacity for raptor conservation and research in Mongolia.
Background:
Since beginning in 1999 this project has improved Mongolia’s response to raptor conservation by training Mongolian biologist Nyambayar Batbayar in raptor biology. Nyamba has since started his own wildlife conservation organization (Wildlife science and Conservation Center of Mongolia) that now works with local and international conservation and science organizations such as World Wildlife Fund, Mongolian Academy of Science, and International Wildlife Consultants Ltd. The thesis research conducted by Nyamba as part of his Masters degree has provided new information about the ecology of the Cinereous Vulture and other raptors. His continued research and conservation work will contribute to increasing our knowledge further and achieving significant conservation results.
Final Summary:
Nyambayar Batbayar completed required graduate level classes in raptor biology and completed his thesis on the ecology of Cinereous Vultures in Mongolia. He defended his thesis in June 2004 and graduated with his Masters-degree in Raptor Biology from Boise State University.
Nyamba’s study found that Cinereous Vultures are food limited in Mongolia, and dependent on domestic livestock carcasses left by nomadic herders. Mongolia may support the largest remaining breeding population of this species, which is endangered in Europe and other parts of its range. The global status of the species is vulnerable to changes that are occurring in Mongolia as the nomadic herding lifestyle is replaced with sedentary occupations. Based on recent reports, Cinereous Vultures may also be vulnerable to West Nile Virus, and are potentially vulnerable to carcass contamination from drugs, such as diclofenac that has decimated Gyps vulture populations in South Asia.
Challenges:
Project Links:
| Project History | Notes From The Field |
| Publications and Data | Other Information |
| Photos and Videos |
Location Note:
Mongolia
Species involved
- Cinereous Vulture — Aegypius monachus
People involved in this project:
Cooperating Partners:
Combined Federal Campaign # 10639
