The assistance available during socialist days no longer exists, so the herders are on their own

Douglas Gardner, UN official

UN officials say they have received only $371,000 in international aid, far short of their request earlier this year for $3 million.

Coldest winter

The current crisis occurred after last summer's drought was followed by the coldest winter for decades, with temperatures dropping to minus 46 degrees centigrade.

Dead cattle mean destitution for many herders

But unlike in the past, people have not been able to rely on the government to help them.

"The assistance available during socialist days no longer exists, so the herders are on their own," said Douglas Gardner, the UN Development Programme officer for Mongolia.

Worsening situation

Yet without livestock such as cattle, horses and sheep, herders are effectively destitute. Not only do they have nothing to eat, but nothing to sell to raise cash.

Mr Gardner did not make a specific request for new funds, but he is worried that things could get worse in Mongolia over the coming months if more outside help does not arrive.

The rains this year have got off to an "unpromising start" he said, so that grass is still not re-growing in many areas.