A Mission to save the world's rarest bear

“They’re the only bear of any kind that dwells exclusively in desert habitat. By adaptation and learning, they’ve found a way to live in one of the most extreme environments on the planet.” – Dr. Harry Reynolds

The purpose of the Gobi Bear Project is to assist the Government of Mongolia in its commitment to protected area management, and to promote conservation and protection of a Critically Endangered species, the Gobi bear (Ursus arctos gobiensis). Established in 2005, the Gobi Bear Project team is comprised of over a dozen dedicated members, the majority of whom are Mongolian nationals and know the study area intimately.

Over the past decade, we have worked hard to develop our understanding of this important animal. We have been able to fit 20 bears with GPS tracking collars so we can better understand their behaviour and movements through this incredible landscape, and significant work has been done to develop our knowledge of their genetics, reproductive performance, survival rates and more.

With less than 40 Gobi bears remaining, substantial work is still needed to carry out the complex assessment of factors which may limit Gobi bears, and to address on-site conservation, augmentation and research by national and international specialists. Further information about our work is provided below, where valued donations to support our vital efforts can be made as well.