Nature Reserve - The Times Of Central Asia

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Wildlife Conservation

Russia’s Amur Tigers to Aid Restoration of Tiger Population in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan and Russia have signed a formal action plan to reintroduce Amur tigers into Kazakhstan, marking a key step in restoring the region's long-extinct Turan tiger population. On November 12, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and Russia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment agreed to transfer four Amur tigers, two males and two females from Russia to Kazakhstan. The animals will be relocated to the Ile-Balkhash State Nature Reserve in southern Kazakhstan, where they will undergo adaptation to local ecological conditions. According to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Ecology, the reintroduction plan is scientifically supported. The now-extinct Turan tiger once roamed across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and northern Iran. Biologists believe that the Turan and Amur tigers, the latter native to Russia’s Far East, share the same genetic lineage. This provides a basis for using Amur tigers to revive the Turan population in Kazakhstan. Under the agreement, Russia will be responsible for veterinary oversight and transportation, while Kazakhstan will manage accommodation and post-transfer monitoring. The initiative is being implemented with support from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). In September 2024, two Amur tigers, a male and a female, were already transferred to the Ile-Balkhash Reserve from the Landgoed Hoenderdaell Zoo in the Netherlands. They are currently housed in a specially designed enclosure for breeding, with the aim of releasing their offspring into the wild. If successful, their cubs would be the first wild tigers to return to Kazakhstan in over 70 years. The southern shore of Lake Balkhash, located in the Ili River delta, was selected as the optimal site for tiger reintroduction. The Ile-Balkhash Reserve was created to rehabilitate the degraded ecosystems of the southern Balkhash region, with particular emphasis on restoring the tiger’s natural prey base. The reserve encompasses the last intact river delta in Central Asia, the Ili River Delta, whereas other major deltas such as those of the Syr Darya, Amu Darya, and Chu rivers have been severely degraded due to desertification. Officials say enhancing the prey base and preserving the area’s remoteness will help prevent human-wildlife conflict. Historically, Turan tigers inhabited reed beds and floodplain forests along the Ili and Syr Darya rivers. Tiger extermination in Kazakhstan began in 1891, when organized military hunts were conducted. The extinction of key prey species, including Bukhara deer, goitered gazelles, saigas, kulans, roe deer, and wild boars, combined with habitat loss, ultimately led to the disappearance of the Turan tiger by 1948. This is not Kazakhstan’s first species reintroduction effort. In June 2024, the country successfully reintroduced the first group of Przewalski’s horses to the Altyn Dala Nature Reserve in the Kostanay region. The horses were transported from the Prague Zoo.

Nature

Tajikistan’s Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve Under Threat

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has raised serious concerns about the condition of Tajikistan’s Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The IUCN has classified the state of this rare ecosystem as “alarming,” citing deteriorating hydrological conditions and mounting risks to regional biodiversity. Located at the confluence of the Vakhsh and Panj rivers in southern Tajikistan, Tigrovaya Balka is home to Central Asia’s only remaining natural Tugai forest, a unique riparian ecosystem that depends on periodic flooding for its survival. The IUCN’s World Heritage Outlook uses four categories to assess sites: “good,” “good with some concerns,” “alarming,” and “critical.” In its latest report, the organization identifies water regulation on the Vakhsh River as the primary threat to the reserve. The construction of reservoirs and increased water extraction for agriculture have disrupted the seasonal floods that historically sustained the forest. Prior to the 1960s, before large-scale hydropower development began, spring floods replenished groundwater, restored ecosystems, and prevented soil erosion. Today, experts say, the Tugai forest relies almost entirely on surface runoff and drainage water, insufficient to maintain its ecological balance. The IUCN report notes that approximately one-third of the Vakhsh River’s flow is diverted for irrigation, while about 20% of the remaining water consists of chemically polluted wastewater. This contamination is degrading water quality across the reserve and contributing to the decline of rare aquatic species. “Pollution damages the aquatic ecosystem, and many species cannot withstand environmental changes,” the report states. The IUCN emphasizes that much of the available data is observational and requires further scientific validation. It recommends a comprehensive hydrological study that considers the effects of climate change to more accurately assess the threats facing the reserve and to develop effective conservation measures. Established on November 4, 1938, the Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve spans 49,700 hectares across the Dusti, Jaihun, and Kubodyon districts in the Khatlon region. Renowned for its natural beauty, it remains one of the Vakhsh Valley’s key ecological and tourist sites. The name “Tigrovaya Balka” (Russian for “Tiger Valley” or Beshaï Palangon in Tajik) commemorates the now-extinct Turanian tiger, which once roamed these lands. The last confirmed sighting of the species in the area dates back to the 1950s.

Conservation

Turkmenistan to Designate Bolshoy and Maly Balkhan Mountains as Protected Areas

The government of Turkmenistan has announced plans to designate the Bolshoy and Maly Balkhan mountain ranges as protected areas. A new nature reserve is currently being established, with its core zone centered on Bolshoy Balkhan and additional wildlife sanctuaries to be located on Maly Balkhan and the Yuzhny Ustyurt plateau. Ecosystem Under Pressure Concerns about preserving the unique Balkhan ecosystem date back to the 19th century. The first official discussions arose in 1832 following Grigory Karelin’s expedition to the Caspian Sea. By 1836, cartographers had documented the eastern Caspian coastline, the ancient Amu Darya riverbed, and the Bolshoy Balkhan ridge. Zoologists such as Mikhail Laptev (1920s-1930s) and Gheldy Shukurov (1940s) later highlighted the ecological value of this “mountain island in the desert,” a view supported by contemporary scientists who continue to stress its conservation importance. For decades, the slopes of the Balkhans have served as seasonal pastures for small livestock from May to October. This overgrazing has degraded natural ecosystems and reduced biodiversity. The new reserve aims to reverse this trend by limiting cattle grazing to foothills and surrounding pastures. The Natural Wealth of the Balkhans The Balkhan region features a striking mix of desert plains and mountain-steppe terrain. Its highest peak is Mount Arlan, which rises to 1,880 meters. The area is home to two species of amphibians, 28 species of reptiles, 174 species of birds, and 45 species of mammals. Among the most distinctive species is the gray monitor lizard, the region’s largest lizard, growing up to 1.5 meters in length. The Central Asian leopard once roamed these mountains but has since migrated to the Ustyurt Plateau. In its absence, populations of wolves and jackals have increased. Other rare animals found in the area include the Turkmen corsac fox, manul (Pallas’s cat), banded gerbil, rock marten, and Severtsov's jerboa. Maly Balkhan, with its unique topography and the renowned Chalsuv spring, famous for its distinctive taste, reaches a height of 780 meters. In earlier decades, saigas would migrate here from Kazakhstan during winter, though such migrations have not occurred in recent years. Part of a Broader Conservation Push The creation of the Balkhan Reserve is part of Turkmenistan’s National Forest Program (2021-2025). The initiative also includes preparations for establishing the Zengibaba Reserve in Dashoguz velayat and expanding the Amudarya State Reserve. Additional protected areas are planned for Lebap velayat, particularly on the Tallymerdzhen Plain, which is home to the rare sandpiper.

Nature Reserves

Kazakhstan Establishes New Nature Reserve in Zhambyl Region

The Merke Regional Nature Park has been established in Kazakhstan's southern Zhambyl region. Granted the status of a protected natural area, the park aims to preserve the unique ecosystems of the foothill and mountain zones of the Western Tien Shan. Covering 86,632 hectares, Merke is home to rare and endemic species, including snow leopards, argali sheep, Indian porcupines, and Turkestan lynxes. The park also opens avenues for developing ecotourism, environmental education, and inclusive community engagement in sustainable land use. Future plans include infrastructure development, job creation, and the implementation of scientific and educational programs. Its establishment was made possible through strong collaboration among government bodies, scientific institutions, local communities, and international partners, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). “UNDP supports Kazakhstan’s efforts to expand its protected area system and strengthen environmental policy at the regional level. Merke Park is a strong example of how local initiatives contribute to global biodiversity goals and climate resilience,” said Katarzyna Wawiernia, UNDP Resident Representative in Kazakhstan. As part of ongoing cooperation between Kazakhstan and the UNDP, ten new specially protected natural areas have already been created nationwide, including the Akzhayik, Altyn-Dala, and Ile-Balkhash nature reserves, as well as the Buyratau, Zhongar Alatau, and Tarbagatai national parks. Additionally, six existing protected areas have been expanded. For the first time, Kazakhstan has also established the Kapshagay-Balkhash and Yrgyz-Torgay-Zhylanshyk ecological corridors, spanning 2.9 million hectares, to safeguard the migration routes of rare animal species.

Nature

Kazakhstan’s Altyn-Emel Named Among World’s Most Incredible National Parks

Kazakhstan’s Altyn-Emel National Park has been ranked in the world's top 10 most impressive national parks outside the United States, according to a recent article in the American travel magazine Travel + Leisure. The article praised the park’s natural diversity, rich wildlife, and distinctive landscapes. Among the standout attractions highlighted were the Singing Barchan sand dune, the Saka-era burial mounds at Besshatyr, the Kapshagai Reservoir, and the Sholak Mountains, a favored destination for birdwatchers. “In Kazakhstan’s Altyn-Emel National Park, you can encounter rare and endangered species such as the Przewalski’s horse and the snow leopard,” the article explains. [caption id="attachment_30226" align="aligncenter" width="600"] @altynemel.kz/Sakka burial mounds[/caption] A Park of History and Biodiversity Established in 1996 in Kazakhstan’s Zhetysu region, in the east of the country, Altyn-Emel National Park spans 307,600 hectares, having expanded from its original area of 209,000 hectares. The park is situated in the Ili River valley and encompasses desert plains, the foothills of the Dzungarian Alatau, and isolated rocky outcrops. The name Altyn-Emel means “Golden Saddle.” The park experiences a sharply continental climate, with dry, hot summers and limited annual precipitation of just 300-330 millimeters. Its varied landscapes include sand dunes, clay formations, and mountain zones composed of ancient Paleozoic rock, some of which date back 400 million years. [caption id="attachment_30227" align="aligncenter" width="600"] @altynemel.kz/The singing barchan[/caption] A Sanctuary for Rare Flora and Fauna Altyn-Emel is home to more than 1,800 species of plants, including 21 listed in Kazakhstan’s Red Book of endangered species. Unique vegetation includes black and white saxaul, ironwood groves, and the wild Sivers apple tree, an ancestor of modern cultivated apples. The park hosts 393 species of vertebrates: 78 mammals, 260 birds, 25 reptiles, four amphibians, and 26 species of fish. Among the rarest animals are argali sheep, goitered gazelles, kulans, and snow leopards. The park is especially proud of its Turkmen kulan population, reintroduced in 1982, which now numbers more than 2,000 individuals. [caption id="attachment_30228" align="aligncenter" width="600"] @altynemel.kz/Petroglyphs[/caption] Nature’s Wonders The park’s most iconic feature is the Singing Barchan, a sand dune stretching 1.5 kilometers and rising to 130 meters in height. In dry weather, the dune emits a humming sound reminiscent of organ music. Other geological and historical landmarks include the multi-colored Aktau clay mountains, the volcanic Katutau rocks, Chokan Valikhanov’s spring, and the Besshatyr necropolis of Saka nobility. Ancient petroglyphs in the Taigak area are also of interest to visitors. Promoting Kazakhstan’s Natural Heritage Efforts to promote Kazakhstan’s national parks internationally continue through initiatives such as the Qazaq National Parks project. In 2024, an exhibition in New York showcased a digital display of the country’s natural wonders. Among the highlights was the book Ile-Alatau Stories, a collection chronicling the lives of individuals committed to conservation efforts. Global Recognition Altyn-Emel shares its top-10 ranking in Travel + Leisure with other spectacular national parks: Galápagos National Park (Ecuador) Mana Pools (Zimbabwe) Plitvice Lakes (Croatia) Killarney National Park (Ireland) Kaz Dağları National Park (Turkey) Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park (Japan) Bandhavgarh National Park (India) The Azores (Portugal)...

Nature

Massive Reserve for Red-Listed Animals to Be Created in Southern Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision has proposed the creation of a new state natural park, Chon-Alai, in the southern region of Osh oblast. The planned park, covering an area of 66,830.79 hectares, aims to protect unique natural ecosystems and conserve endangered species of flora and fauna. A draft resolution has been published for public discussion. Land Reallocation for the Park To establish the Chon-Alai Nature Park, the government plans to reallocate 23,473.79 hectares of land from the “Reserve Land” category in the Chon-Alai district, as well as 43,357 hectares from the “State Forest Fund” under the Alai Forestry Administration. The combined area will be designated as a specially protected natural area. According to the Ministry of Natural Resources, the proposed territory meets all the criteria for protected areas, as it contains rare ecosystems and populations of endemic species. The park will span three sites on the southern macro-slope of the Alai Ridge and two sites on the northern slope of the western Zaalai Ridge, including part of the Kyzyl-Suu-Zapadnaya River valley. This region has been recognized for its environmental significance for years. As far back as 2004, there have been plans to establish a transboundary Pamir-Alai Nature Park in this area. Protecting Red-Listed Species The primary purpose of the Chon-Alai Nature Park is to ensure the protection of species listed in the Red Book of Kyrgyzstan and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The park will help preserve habitats for rare and endangered species, including: Mammals: Snow leopard, brown bear, Central Asian otter, Turkestan lynx, and warthog; Birds: Golden eagle, black vulture, and Alayan shieldbill; Fish: Turkestan catfish; Flora: Christoph's jaundice, Romanov's parnassus, evasive alaya, and Kostychev's prostrel. The creation of the park will provide a safe haven for these species, many of which are threatened by habitat loss, climate change, and human activity. A Milestone for Conservation The establishment of the Chon-Alai Nature Park represents a significant step forward in Kyrgyzstan's efforts to preserve its natural heritage. By protecting critical habitats and endangered species, the park will contribute to both national and global conservation goals.