As spring arrives, efforts for protecting the Mazaalai bear have intensified across Mongolia’s Gobi region. The Mazaalai, also known as the Gobi bear, ends its hibernation around late February or early March, a period when natural food remains scarce.
To address this challenge, Mongolia distributed the first batch of supplemental feed between February 20 and March 20, 2025. Specifically, 3,440 kilograms of feed were placed at 26 locations using 43 dispensers to support the bears during this critical time.
Additionally, officials began distributing a second batch of feed on April 20, 2025. According to O. Altansaruul, Head of the Department of Environmental Projects and Programs at the Office of the President of Mongolia, an extra 4,000 kilograms will soon be available. This means that protecting the Mazaalai bear this spring will involve a total of 7.5 tons of distributed feed.
Moreover, O. Altansaruul shared several new initiatives on the Mazaalai website aimed at further protecting the Mazaalai bear. One key plan focuses on increasing the number of natural water sources and building artificial reservoirs within the bear’s habitat.
In addition, the government plans to install real-time monitoring cameras near water spots to closely observe Mazaalai activity. Researchers will also study the bear’s dietary composition at a cellular level to improve the quality of the supplemental feed.
Other initiatives include conducting experiments with feed formulas and building a lasting stockpile. Scientists will examine both internal and external parasites affecting the bears to better understand health challenges. Furthermore, authorities will fit Mazaalai bears with satellite tracking collars to monitor their movements and ensure their safety.
Cloud seeding operations will also take place to modify weather patterns, aiming to support the fragile Gobi ecosystem where the bears live. Finally, the government has announced plans to establish a dedicated Mazaalai research center.
Protecting the Mazaalai bear remains crucial for preserving the unique Gobi ecosystem. Through these comprehensive measures, Mongolia not only safeguards this critically endangered species but also ensures the protection of other vulnerable wildlife inhabiting the region.
