Though resembling donkeys, onagers are desert-dwelling members of the horse family

. Originally native to Syria, Iran, Pakistan, India, Israel and Tibet, they're now restricted to two protected areas in Iran. Poaching, drought and grazing competition from domestic livestock have reduced their population to just 600.

Why are Persian Onagers endangered?

The Persian onager is listed as endangered by IUCN Red List, as it is close to extinction. Currently, poaching for meat and hides, competition with livestock, and drought are the greatest threats to this species.

How many Onager are left?

The Persian onager (Equus hemionus onager) is practically extinct in the wild. Once ranging from Israel to Mongolia, the animal now numbers only about 500, sequestered in two protected areas of Iran. In order to ensure we don't lose this species entirely, conservationists have started breeding the animal in captivity.