From Hillsborough to Wild Camel Conservation in Gobi Desert of Mongolia

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — 5 May 2026 — In a quiet corner of Hillsborough, New Jersey, a global conservation effort is taking shape. The Wild Camel Protection Foundation USA (WCPF USA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in the township, is working to protect one of the rarest large mammals on Earth—the Wild Camel (Camelus ferus)—while building awareness and community engagement right here at home.

With an estimated population of only around 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild and none in zoos anywhere in the world, the Wild Camel is among the least-known endangered species. Native to the remote Gobi Desert of Mongolia and China, the species faces mounting threats from climate change, water scarcity, habitat degradation, and hybridization with domestic camels. WCPF USA supports field conservation, scientific research, and operation of two breeding centers in one of the planet’s most extreme environments.

For Dr. Kah-Wai Lin, President of WCPF USA and a Hillsborough resident, the mission is both global and deeply local. “Conservation doesn’t start in the desert, it starts with awareness,” Dr. Lin said. “Most people have never heard of Wild Camels. By sharing their story here in Hillsborough and across New Jersey, we can inspire people to care about biodiversity, climate, and the future of our planet.”

The organization’s growing visibility was recently highlighted by its international exhibition, “Canvas of Hope: Saving the Wild Camel” held at the Embassy of Mongolia in Washington, D.C., which brought together conservationists, scientists, diplomats, and members of the public.

Although the Gobi Desert may seem distant, the challenges it represents are not. Desert ecosystems are often among the first to reflect the impacts of climate change, making them important indicators of environmental shifts that ultimately affect communities worldwide. By bringing the story of the Gobi to New Jersey through educational exhibits, public talks, and community outreach, WCPF USA is creating a bridge between local residents and global environmental issues.

In recent months, the organization has expanded its presence through educational programs in zoos and schools, where visitors, especially children, are often surprised to learn that there is a third species of camel beyond the familiar one-humped and two-humped varieties. These encounters become powerful entry points for conversations about conservation, biodiversity, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems.

As WCPF USA continues to grow, it is now calling on the Hillsborough community and the broader New Jersey region to take part in its mission. The organization is actively seeking volunteers who are interested in contributing to education, outreach, events, and nonprofit initiatives. Whether assisting at local exhibits, helping with communications, or supporting community engagement, volunteers play a vital role in bringing conservation stories to life.

“Building a conservation community starts locally,” Dr. Lin said. “We welcome anyone who wants to be part of something meaningful. You don’t need a background in science—just curiosity, passion, and a willingness to make a difference.”

For more information or to get involved, visit https://wildcamelusa.org or email us at wildcamelusa (AT) gmail (DOT) com