Zhuonai Lake: A Seasonal Nursery and a Protection Post

Each year, female chiru travel from winter ranges in Sanjiangyuan, Qiangtang and the Altun Mountains toward the interior of Hoh Xil. A 2026 science explainer describes routes that follow river valleys with reliable water and gentler slopes. Zhuonai Lake is one of several high-altitude lakes where the animals gather to give birth.

The timing is concentrated: the explainer places calving in late June and early July, usually over a period of no more than ten days. Mothers and newborns remain around the calving area for about 24 days before returning toward their original ranges. The lake’s role is seasonal, set by arrival, birth and departure.

The Zhuonai Lake Protection Station stands on the lake’s south shore inside Hoh Xil. A 2026 report from the National Forestry and Grassland Administration describes it as a seasonal post. Staff begin deployment in early May for a three-month calving-season operation, patrolling around the lake and monitoring births.

The station also responds when young animals are lost or injured. In July 2026, the Hoh Xil management office reported rescuing three chiru calves: two separated from their mothers and one injured. Patrols, monitoring and rescue work follow the seasonal gathering at the lake, linking a migration across long distances to care on the ground.