The axes of the cross stratification dip east-northeast. These and other sedimentary features indicate eolian deposition, driven by westerly winds. At least three different trace fossil types are preserved. A biologically active ecosystem is reflected by the vertebrate body fossil and invertebrate trace fossil assemblages. Protoceratops specimens are commonly found articulated and semi-articulated, and oriented parallel to the maximum dip direction of the sediments in which they are entombed.
Limbs are commonly contracted and necks are pulled back, in poses indicative of dessication.
In some cases, death probably occurred by suffocation during sand storms, but in other cases, by less dramatic processes. Penecontemporaneous deposits in northen China reveal similar suites of environments, suggesting a uniform depositional response in the region to Late Cretaceous climates.