ULAN BATOR, Oct. 23 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia celebrated International Day of the Snow Leopard on Friday to raise public awareness of the endangered species and highlight the importance of public participation in its conservation.
"The snow leopard is an exceptionally rare species that reflects the ecological balance of mountain ecosystems. It is classified as 'very rare' under Mongolia's Law on Fauna," the country's Ministry of Environment and Climate Change said.
The ministry said Mongolia is working to protect snow leopard habitats and maintain its population at sustainable levels by recognizing the species' vital role in preserving the health of high-mountain ecosystems and reducing the threats and pressures it faces.
A series of activities was organized to mark the occasion, including a student conference on snow leopards themed "Climate Change and the King of the Mountains" and a marathon titled "Run for Snow Leopard 2026."
Mongolia is home to the world's second-largest snow leopard population, with an estimated 1,200 individuals in the country, according to the ministry.
International Day of the Snow Leopard is observed annually on Oct. 23 to raise awareness of the conservation of the endangered species and its mountain habitat. ■
