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Our News
Seeking solutions to human-wildlife conflict
The Mongol Bankhar initiative, launched in 2019 in snow leopard habitats in Mongolia's high mountain regions, has been especially well-received by local herders. Under this project, 20 Bankhar puppies were distributed to 12 herder households across sub-provinces in western Mongolia. The initiative taps into Mongolia's rich nomadic heritage—Bankhars have historically been used by pastoralists as loyal and protective guardians for their livestock against predators.
The Mongol Bankhar initiative, launched in 2019 in snow leopard habitats in Mongolia's high mountain regions, has been especially well-received by local herders. Under this project, 20 Bankhar puppies were distributed to 12 herder households across sub-provinces in western Mongolia. The initiative taps into Mongolia's rich nomadic heritage—Bankhars have historically been used by pastoralists as loyal and protective guardians for their livestock against predators.
Over the past two decades, a significant increase in livestock numbers has pushed herders closer to snow leopard habitats. This encroachment has led to more frequent livestock losses due to snow leopard attacks, escalating tensions and conflict between people and this endangered species. To address this challenge, the Mongol Bankhar project has proven highly effective. Herders report a noticeable reduction in livestock losses, thanks to the presence of Bankhar dogs that accompany and protect the herds in pastures. As a result, negative attitudes toward snow leopards have also diminished.
Byambaa, a herder from Sharga sub-province in Govi-Altai province, shared his experience:
"In the past, we would lose at least 10 animals a year to snow leopard attacks. But since we've had a Bankhar dog with our herds, we've had no losses—and no resentment toward the snow leopards either."
As of January 2025, total of 74 Bankhar dogs are being cared for by 57 herder households within the project area. The positive feedback from local communities reflects the success of integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation practices to foster coexistence between humans and wildlife.
© WWF-Mongolia
Mongolian Shepherd Dogs