Saiga Antelopes in Kazakhstan 2024

The saiga antelope, or saiga, is a species of antelope that once thrived across the Eurasian steppe in antiquity. Today, the dominant subspecies are found only in the Ural, Ustyurt, and Betpak-Dala regions of Kazakhstan. Though they were on the brink of extinction until recently, thanks to dedicated wildlife conservation efforts, you now have the chance to witness this remarkable Ice Age survivor.

Best Time to See

In October and November, saiga antelopes migrate to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan in search of warmer winters. Then, between April and May, they journey back to their homeland. Saiga antelopes are capable of migrating over distances of up to 1,000 kilometers between their summer and winter habitats.

Where to Saiga Antelopes in Kazakhstan?

In Kazakhstan, saiga antelopes primarily inhabit the Ural, Ustyurt, and Betpak-Dala regions. A non-migrating subpopulation is found in the hilly southwest of Lake Tengiz, within the Betpak-Dala range. The Tersakan River is a notable spot to observe saiga as they come to drink. Additionally, sightings are common in the steppes west of Lake Kiptshak, where saiga sometimes interact with domestic livestock from the village of Zhanbobek.

Saiga Antelopes Info

The unique and fascinating saiga, known for its distinctive bulbous nose, is superbly adapted to the harsh conditions of the remote wilderness it inhabits. However, it has little defense against the threats posed by humans. The saiga’s coat changes with the seasons: in summer, it ranges from yellow to reddish hues, fading toward the flanks, while the Mongolian saiga takes on a sandy color. In winter, the coat becomes pale grayish-brown, with hints of brown on the belly and neck. Only the males have horns, and the mating season begins in November when stags battle for the attention of females.

Endangered Species

Until recently, there were nearly 300,000 saiga antelopes in the world, mainly in Kazakhstan. Thanks to wildlife protection measures, the Ural, Ustyurt, and Betpak-Dala populations have shown a steady recovery, with numbers rising from 21,000 in 2003 to 1,318,000 in 2022. However, over the past 15 years, saiga numbers have declined by 95%, with the worst blow in May 2015, when an unknown disease wiped out over a third of the population. Despite scientists' efforts to save these rare, ancient animals, their future remains uncertain. Witnessing their migration is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.