The largest wild ass in the world, a chestnut and white animal often seen in herds on the open steppe.
- Group: Mammal
- Habitats: Alpine steppe, alpine meadow
- Regions: Ü Tsang, Kham, Amdo
Habitat
Open alpine steppe and meadows, from Ladakh across the Changtang to Amdo.
Diet
Grasses and sedges, and shrubs in winter.
Ecological role
A major grazer of the steppe and prey of wolves.
Threats
Fencing of pastures blocks its movements, and some local authorities and herders regard it as a competitor of livestock for grass.
Conservation
Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN and protected in China.