WWF-Mongolia with researchers from the Institute of Biology, in collaboration with 11 rangers from Onon–Balj National Park, carried out monitoring of the white-naped crane (Antigone vipio) in eastern Mongolia.  The survey recorded 292 white-naped cranes (Antigone vipio), including 33 breeding pairs. Core breeding sites were concentrated in the Ulz River basin, Tengeleg River, Ekhen Burd, Kholboo Lake. Pre-migration counts recorded 397 individuals, confirming the area as a critical seasonal concentration site.              

These findings reinforce the need to strengthen conservation of the white-naped crane in the Onon–Balj landscape through targeted protection of critical breeding and pre-migration habitats, together with long-term monitoring of key sites. In particular, two areas were identified as priorities for immediate physical protection. Both sites provide important breeding and seasonal staging habitat, but are increasingly threatened by overgrazing, declining water levels, domestic dogs, and human disturbance.

WWF-Mongolia continues to organize annual awareness events for the white-naped crane, including “Goodbye Crane and “Bon Voyage,” to mark key stages of the species’ migration and to engage local communities.