Will saigas be culled in Kazakhstan? Ecology Minister responds

Tengrinews.kz – Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Yerlan Nyssanbayev has addressed public concern over a potential culling of saigas in Kazakhstan, amid ongoing discussions among scientists and wildlife experts.
Speaking to journalists, Nyssanbayev emphasized that no final decision has been made yet.

"We’ve held an initial meeting with scientists and specialists focused on saiga populations, and a second meeting is planned. More time is needed for the scientific community to assess all obligations and determine the next steps - whether to regulate the population or explore alternative measures. We clearly see growing human-wildlife conflict and vulnerability to disease outbreaks. A carefully considered decision is required," he said.

According to the minister, a resolution is expected by the end of this year.
When asked how the population might be regulated, Nyssanbayev said that, if necessary, standard methods would be used.

"How else would it be done? Through corral trapping or nets. The second method is culling. But science is still reviewing the options," he explained.

In April 2024, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced a ban on the removal of saigas from their natural habitat, emphasizing their symbolic significance to the Kazakh steppe. The species, known for its distinct appearance and ecological importance, has been at the center of conservation debates as its population rapidly increases, sometimes clashing with agricultural activity.