ULAN BATOR, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia's reindeer population saw a significant decline in 2024, local media reported Monday, citing data from the National Statistics Office (NSO).
According to the NSO, the total number of reindeer in the country stood at 2,765 by the end of 2024, reflecting a decrease of approximately 5.7 percent compared to the previous year.
Reindeer herding in Mongolia is exclusively practiced by the Dukha, an indigenous community residing in the taiga -- also known as the boreal or snow forest -- within Tsagaannuur soum, an administrative subdivision of the northernmost province of Khuvsgul.
Khuvsgul is one of the country's top tourist destinations for its stunning landscapes and pristine lakes.
In an effort to preserve the unique culture of reindeer herders, protect the species, and boost winter tourism, Mongolia is set to host a reindeer festival in Tsagaannuur soum on Feb. 20-21. ■
