Eling Lake. 07/12/04; Qinghai; 65,907 ha; 34°54'25'' N 097°40'48''E. Nature Reserve. The largest freshwater lake in the Yellow River catchment with high hydrological values, regulating run-offs, retaining sediments, maintaining water quality, and preventing flooding. At over 4,200 meters on semi-arid plateau, the lake is an important habitat for the endangered Saker Falcon Falco cherrug and the vulnerable Black-necked Crane Grus nigricollis. It supports endangered mammals such as the vulnerable White lipped Deer Przewalskium albirostris and Wild Yak Bos mutus. A number of endemic fish species can be found including Gymnocypris eckloni Herzenstein and Gymnodiptychus ptychocheilus Herzenstein. The sub-Himalayan plant community forms the main food of livestock and the source of traditional Tibetan herbal medicines. The lake plays an important role in Tibetan Buddhist history and is one of the six holiest sites for pilgrimage. Threats to the site include shrinking glaciers and retreating snow lines caused by global warming, with decreasing water supplies. Ramsar site no. 1436. Most recent RIS information:2012

Qinghai Province