The National Statistical Office of Mongolia (NSO) reported on Thursday the catastrophic consequences of a winter known as dzuud: in January, over 26,300 livestock perished in the western aimags of Uvs, Bayan-Ölgii, and Zavkhan, as well as in the central aimag of Övörkhangai.
According to the NSO statement, at least 11 out of 21 Mongolian aimags are experiencing difficulties related to dzuud.
The term "dzuud" describes severe winter weather in Mongolia, when a significant number of livestock lose their lives due to frostbite or being buried under snow.
Animal husbandry plays a key role in Mongolia's economy, providing livelihoods for nearly 40 percent of the country's nomadic population.
However, due to prolonged harsh winter conditions, many nomadic herders in Mongolia face livestock losses every year.
According to NSO data, by the end of 2025, the country is expected to have 58.1 million livestock.
