Reuniting with their reindeer

For about two decades, the population of reindeer in Olguya has remained at around 1,000, Dekesha said.

But the demographic of the herders is shifting. "I feel much more optimistic because the younger generation is eager to go up the mountains. They've developed a genuine love for animal husbandry and the enjoyment of nature. This is a big step forward. I'm proud that the Ewenki have successors in reindeer herding," she said.

Among those returning is a young Ewenki named Youta Kaertakun, Dekesha's niece.

"The main reason I raise reindeer now stems from my upbringing. Growing up in this environment with my elders instilled in me a sense of duty to pass down these experiences and traditions to future generations," the 37-year-old said.

After graduating with a major in Chinese language and literature from Hulunbuir University in 2012, she went to Mohe city in Heilongjiang province to find a job in tourism.

"Back then, there were few job prospects in my hometown. Raising reindeer wasn't profitable due to the costs of vaccines and winter feed. Traditionally, moving reindeer required a lot of crew, but now we use vehicles, which adds to the expenses," Youta said.