Aibat Muzbay
Other projects
6 Feb 2024
Research on Vegetation Composition and Biomass Production in the Ural (Kazakhstan) Steppe Ecosystem for the Solution of Human-Wildlife Conflict
This project aims to identify and secure critical migration corridors for the Ustyurt population of the saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica) in Kazakhstan, historically one of the most threatened migratory ungulates in Central Asia.
Although saiga populations have shown signs of recovery in recent years, their long-term survival is increasingly threatened by habitat fragmentation, expanding infrastructure, and climate-driven shifts in pasture availability.
The Ustyurt saiga migrate seasonally between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, crossing landscapes that are rapidly changing due to railways, border fencing, livestock expansion, and industrial development. These barriers can disrupt traditional movement routes, restrict access to seasonal grazing areas,
and increase mortality risks. However, precise data on current migration pathways and bottlenecks remain limited.
To address this gap, the project will deploy GPS satellite tags on saiga individuals and establish a network of camera traps in key areas to monitor movement patterns. By integrating telemetry data with field surveys and spatial analysis, we will map priority corridors, identify crossing points affected by infrastructure, and assess seasonal habitat use.
The project places strong emphasis on practical conservation outcomes. Results will be shared with national authorities and regional stakeholders to inform mitigation measures, including wildlife crossings, fencing modifications, and improved land-use planning. Policy briefs and technical
recommendations will be developed in collaboration with the Committee for Forestry and Wildlife and scientific partners.