Pictures of Mongolia's Reindeer People

Mongolian Reindeer Pictures: Dukha Boy with Squirrel Skins from Hunt
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A Dukha boy holds on as his reindeer releases some energy. The Dukha, unlike other reindeer herders, have selectively bred their reindeer for strong backs so people can ride the animals over long distances through the mountains.

These particular genetic characteristics lead biologist Kirk Olson, among others, to caution against crossbreading the reindeer with other species. When wild bulls mated with females from the Dukha herd, the offspring were aggressive and had weak backs, rendering them useless to meet the needs of the Dukha.

Read the news story about these people and their reindeer.

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Photo gallery by Chelsea Lane-Miller
Photograph copyright Hamid Sardar
 
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