The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Capital City Environment Department, and the Ecological Police Division of the National Police Agency have launched intensified nationwide inspections to curb the illegal hunting, transportation, and trade of marmots.

Despite ongoing conservation efforts, authorities say poaching has shown little sign of declining. To help restore marmot populations, environmental agencies relocate between 500 and 700 marmots each year based on scientific assessments. However, poaching continues to undermine these conservation measures.

Officials are therefore conducting extensive inspections in areas inhabited by marmots and at key checkpoints while also raising public awareness of wildlife protection laws and regulations. Under Mongolia’s Law on Fauna, hunting marmots is prohibited annually from October 16 to August 20 of the following year. Outside this closed season, marmot hunting is permitted only with a valid special permit.

Marmots play an important role in Mongolia’s steppe ecosystem, serving as a key species that helps maintain ecological balance. Through their burrowing activities, they improve soil aeration, influence vegetation growth, and provide shelter for other small animals. As an important prey species for predators such as golden eagles and foxes, marmots also support the wider food chain.