Specialists from the Institute of Zoology conducted studies at the calving sites of the Betpak-Dala and Ustyurt saiga populations under the SCP “Development of a sustainable use system for the Betpak-Dala and Ustyurt saiga populations.”
During the work, mass calving sites were identified, fertility and infant mortality were assessed. Samples were collected from newborn saiga calves for cryobiological and veterinary studies, and clinical examinations were conducted to assess the health of the mothers and calves in the post-partum period.
Additionally, zoologist specialists weighed and tagged the calves, including using satellite transmitters. A UAV was used to locate mass calving sites and count the animals.
The conducted research will allow scientists to study saiga diseases and potential health threats more deeply, track migration routes, and develop effective methods for conserving saiga populations in Kazakhstan.
The work involved researchers from the Institute of Zoology’s Teriology Laboratory and the Center for Biocenology and Hunting Research. All procedures were performed with minimal disturbance to the animals, and the calves were returned to their mothers after the manipulations.
The studies were supported by the Committee for Forestry and Wildlife of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the RK State Enterprise “PO Okhotzooprom”.
Photo: Sergey Bespalov, Teriology Laboratory
19.05.2025