Lake Erkhel

Lake Erkhel

The saline lake, Erkhel is surrounded by a dry steppe vegetation zone. The lake receives freshwater from the Erelkhiin Turuu spring, which enters from the northwest, resulting in lower salinity in that area. This part of the lake is home to several small islands that provide a favorable habitat for water birds. The main land use in the area is cattle grazing, as agriculture is not practiced here. The salt from the lake is utilized for local livestock. However, in 2005 and 2006, the lake experienced an outbreak of avian influenza. Erkhel Lake holds great importance for bird species, including globally threatened ones such as the Lesser Kestrel, Saker Falcon, and Great Bustard. The place also supports bird species from the Eurasian steppe and desert biomes. Flocks of Ruddy Shelduck, Falcated Duck, Eurasian Wigeon, Northern Shoveler, Common Pochard, Tufted Duck, Common Goldeneye, Whooper Swan, Northern Lapwing, and Pied Avocet gather here, surpassing 1% of their flyway populations. Additionally, Whooper Swans and Bar-Headed Geese come together in flocks to moult. During their migrations, several birds of prey, including the Northern Goshawk, Saker Falcon, Western Marsh Harrier, Merlin, Common Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon and Steppe Eagle, make a stop at the lake. Erkhel Lake is also home to some special flora and fauna. The globally endangered Pallas's Cat can be found in the area, adding to the ecological significance of the site. Other notable species include the Gray Wolf, Corsac Fox, Red Fox and Tarbagan Marmot, all of which are listed in the Red Data Book of Mongolia, highlighting their conservation status.