Zonag Lake in Tibet, literally translates as "the gathering place of the antelope". Each year, tens of thousands of female antelopes travel long distances to the lake between June and August - to give birth. But why they choose such a harsh environment, with its strong winds and lack of food remains a mystery. As another antelope birthing season gets underway, Fintan Monaghan takes a look at this majestic gathering.

Zonag Lake in Tibet, literally translates as "the gathering place of the antelope". Each year, tens of thousands of female antelopes travel long distances to the lake between June and August - to give birth.

From June to August each year, staff and volunteers of Hoh Xil nature reserve stay with the female antelopes. They keep a close eye, guarding against illegal poachers and other predators.

These mother antelope mainly come from Qinghai, Xinjiang and Tibet. After overcoming many difficulties along the way, they finally arrive here at their destination.

Tens of thousands of antelope recently arrived at the lake, following a heavy snow.

Due to the severe weather conditions at Zonag Lake, many baby antelope easily get lost. The high altitude means food is scarce - a major threat to the youngster's survival.

As we patrolled with the staff, we came across a lost baby antelope, stuck in icy water that is rising because of the melting snow.

Yingpei, Staff Member of Hoh Xil Nature Reserve, said, "The melting snow trapped this baby antelope. It got separated from its mother. We're going to take it back to our protection site."

The conditions, and the sheer numbers of antelopes giving birth mean it's a common problem for the staff here, and something they have to deal with on a daily basis.

If they're not found in time, these young antelopes can die from cold or predator attack.

Nima, Staff Member of Hoh Xil Nature Reserve, said, "When we were patrolling this morning, we saw so many dead baby antelopes. It's so good when we can find one alive. We really try to find as many as we can, and take care of them until they're strong enough to face the harsh environment by themselves."

Each rescued antelope is given a new name. With sufficient medicine and food on hand, it's just a matter of finding the lost ones in time - so they can enjoy their time on the reserve, and return to the lake years later - to have their own offspring.

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)