The saiga antelope

Habitat

The Saiga Antelope (Saiga tatarica and S. borealis mongolica) is a large migratory herbivore of Central Asia found in Kazakhstan, Mongolia, the Russian Federation, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

Animal Paw Print Illustration
Animal Paw Print Illustration
Animal Paw Print Illustration
Animal Paw Print Illustration


The saiga generally inhabits open dry steppe grasslands and semi-arid deserts.

Continents :

Center of Asia

The Russian Federation

silhouette deer antlers

What we can do

Habitat protection and restoration, raising public awareness about the plight of saiga antelopes


1Establishing protected areas to safeguard crucial breeding.


2 Research to understand the causes and prevent the spread of diseases like Peste des Petits Ruminants, which has significantly impacted saiga populations.


3 Law enforcement and border control to deter illegal hunting and trafficking of saiga horns.



Why are they endangered?


Some farmers have complained that large herds of saiga graze on their crops and destroy their livelihoods. The ministry says the antelope caused some $25.5 million in agricultural damage last year.


But experts warn that Kazakhstan should first establish measures to prevent poaching and other problems that drove the saiga to the verge of extinction in the 1990s.




Poachers kill male saiga for their horns, which are in high demand in neighboring China as an ingredient for traditional medicine. Saiga poaching skyrocketed in the Central Asian country after the fall of the Soviet Union.

Numbers in the wild


December 2023, the saiga antelope population is estimated to be over 1.9 million in Kazakhstan, with smaller populations in Russia and Uzbekistan [Saiga Antelope Moves from Critically Endangered to Near Threatened Category on IUCN Red List]. This is a significant improvement from the lows of just a few decades ago, thanks to conservation efforts.


Efforts

Remember those funny-nosed antelopes with the big snouts? The saiga antelope, once a common sight on the Eurasian steppes, almost vanished due to poaching. But there's good news! Thanks to some awesome conservation efforts, these unique creatures are making a comeback.


  • Poachers Beware!: Poaching for saiga horns used to be a huge problem. Now, stricter laws, more rangers on patrol, and working with local communities are helping to stop this illegal activity.


How YOU Can Help Save the Saiga Antelope!


The saiga antelope, with its distinctive bulbous nose, is a survivor facing serious challenges. But the good news is – you can be part of the solution! Here's how you can contribute to their fight for survival:

  • Spread Awareness: Share information about saigas and the threats they face on social media or with friends and family. Use engaging hashtags like #SaveTheSaiga.


  • Responsible Tourism: If you travel to Central Asia, choose tour operators committed to sustainable practices and respect for wildlife.