Buir Nuur & Wetlands

Buir Lake, the largest freshwater lake in eastern Mongolia and part of the Amur River’s basin, as well as other smaller lakes, are located across the Chinese border. This transitional ecosystem between the Daguur and Stipa steppes has arid steppe flora and fauna, manages the water cycle of the Khalk Gol River and the Buir lake, and protects the beginnings of many tiny rivers, lakes, streams, and springs. The region serves as a primary grazing ground for Mongolian gazelles (Procapra gutturosa), as well as a stopover and permanent habitat for over 236 bird species. Many IUCN, CITES, and CMS-listed fauna and flora species are present, making it vital for biogeographical biodiversity. Apart from a small fishing community on the eastern coast that supports the lake’s long-established fishing business, there are no human settlements within the wetland. Land degradation has resulted from extensive grazing, although there is no further agricultural activity. Water levels have been influenced by global warming, resulting in the reduction of fish stocks.