Currently in progress, this project explores the incredible journey of conservationists working to protect the wild camel, one of Earth’s rarest and most endangered species.
The wild camel (Camelus ferus), genetically distinct from the domestic Bactrian camel, was recognized as a unique species only in 2008—by which time fewer than 1,000 remained on Earth. These critically endangered animals, found in the deserts of Mongolia and northwest China, face mounting threats from desertification, climate change, mining, and hybridization with domestic camels. Despite their vital ecological role, wild camels have long remained under the radar, receiving far less attention than they urgently need.
In 2005, British wildlife conservationist John Hare, OBE, took a groundbreaking step by establishing the first wild camel breeding center in Zakhyn-Us, Mongolia. His efforts gave hope to the species, but following his passing in 2022, the responsibility now rests on Adiya Yadamsuren, his sole successor in the region. Against a backdrop of economic hardship and environmental strain, Adiya works tirelessly to protect these remarkable creatures, ensuring their survival for future generations.
- A SUNSKYE FILMS Production
- In Association with L.I. PRODUCTIONS
- Directed by XIAOYU YANG
- Produced by KAH-WAI LIN
Since early 2024, our team has been embedded with Adiya Yadamsuren, documenting his extraordinary and often overwhelming mission to protect the critically endangered wild camels in the unforgiving conditions of Mongolia’s Gobi Desert.
These remarkable creatures face staggering odds, and Adiya’s mission is nothing short of heroic. Braving temperatures that swing from -30˚F in the brutal winters to over 100˚F in the sweltering summers, Adiya and his team of three researchers work tirelessly with limited resources. Together, they manage the breeding center, monitor the herd’s health, nurture vulnerable calves, and fend off predators, all while navigating the harsh realities of an unforgiving environment. It is a battle against time, nature, and circumstance to ensure the survival of one of the world’s rarest species.
Echos Across the Gobi Desert
After six years of meticulous planning, a second breeding center was established 350 kilometers from the existing one—a pivotal milestone in the conservation of wild camels. In September 2024, with support from the John Hare's Wild Camel Protection Foundation (UK) and Prague Zoo, the team undertook the most challenging task to date: the migration of 10 wild camels to their new home.
Our crew documented every step of this extraordinary journey. Over two grueling days and a night, we crossed the rugged terrain of the Gobi Desert on rocky, unforgiving roads. The team included 20 dedicated individuals—researchers, veterinarians, and support staff from Mongolia, the UK, and the Czech Republic. Despite the immense logistical and environmental challenges, all 10 camels were safely transported to the new breeding center without a single injury, marking a triumph for conservation efforts in one of the world’s harshest landscapes.
