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A distressing discovery has been made in the Kaztalov district of Western Kazakhstan، where the carcasses of thousands of saiga antelopes have been found along the banks of the Saryozen River. Wildlife specialists are currently working to determine the exact cause of this mass mortality event.

Natural Causes Suspected

Experts suggest that the deaths are likely a natural occurrence، attributing the mortality to the animals being weakened after their winter migration. Efforts are underway to collect and dispose of the carcasses to prevent any potential spread of disease.

Scale of the Incident

As of the latest reports، over 1،600 saiga antelopes have been found deceased. This unfortunate event is not entirely unprecedented، with similar occurrences reported annually in the spring. In some past years، the number of deaths has exceeded five thousand.

Ongoing Investigation

While natural causes are suspected، specialists are conducting thorough investigations to confirm the exact reasons for the saiga's demise and to assess any potential risks to public health. Samples have been collected and sent to a veterinary laboratory for analysis. The Ural population of saiga was estimated at 2.3 million at the end of last year، and a more precise count is expected soon as animal census work is scheduled for the region next week.

Population Management Measures

It's worth noting that government decrees in 2025 mandated measures to regulate the saiga population. According to Kairat Kadeshev، deputy head of the regional hunting inspection، over 108،000 saiga were removed from their natural habitat as part of these management efforts. Such measures can significantly impact population numbers، as even a modest birth rate (e.g.، two calves per female، with 60% being female) could theoretically triple the population without intervention.

This article is based on information from the Infohub.kz news agency.