Asian wild ass  (Equus hemionus)

The greatest threat facing the Asian wild ass is poaching for meat and hides (3), and there seems to be a trade in this species for medicinal reasons, which requires further investigation. The extreme isolation of many of the subpopulations is, in itself, a threat, as genetic problems can result from inbreeding (3). Overgrazing by livestock reduces the available food, and herders also reduce the availability of water at springs. The cutting down of shrubs and bushes further reduces food availability. Furthermore, a series of drought years could have devastating effects on this beleaguered species (4).

The Asian wild ass does occur in a number of protected sites where targeted conservation action has been taken. Domestic animals have been removed from some protected areas, and artificial watering holes have been made. Hay is provided for the species and there are hefty fines for poaching (4). Moreover, the species is legally protected in many of the countries in which it occurs (4). There are several Asian wild ass research programmes underway at present, as it is clear that details of the behaviour, ecology and taxonomic status of the Asian wild ass must be discovered before it can be effectively conserved (4).