There are generally three big animal families in this area, namely, Tibetan antelopes, Asiatic wild ass and wild yaks.

Known as "chiru" in the Tibetan language, the Tibetan antelope is the smallest physically of the three animal families. In this depopulated zone, the numerous lake banks, plentiful water and lush pastures and large level areas all provide ideal dwellings for Tibetan antelopes. The Tibetan antelope is found almost exclusively in western China, living at an altitude of over 4,500 meters. In 1979, it was included on the list of species for which trade is strictly forbidden under CITES.

Because of poaching, the numbers of Tibetan antelope are falling drastically. It is estimated that there are now no more than 75,000-100,000 left alive - just one-tenth of the number a century ago. Estimates of the amount of shahtoosh processed in India suggest that more than 20,000 antelopes are killed each year for their fur. If poaching continues on this scale, the Tibetan antelope may become extinct within 20 years. 

Known as "kiang " in Tibetan language, the Tibetan wild ass is scattered through the depopulated area. They are very wary animals and do not like to be approached, and thus avoid human communities. They live in small groups of 6-12 animals consisting of an adult male (a stallion), several females and their young. In the autumn and winter these small groups come together to form a herd of several hundred animals. 

Although their numbers have been declining for centuries, their decline rate has increased dramatically over the last fifty years or so. The animal has been prized as a source of excellent meat and it has been used for centuries as a beast of burden.

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