Kazakhstan's saiga antelope stages a stunning 4.6-million comeback

Kazakhstan’s saiga population has rebounded to over 4.6 million animals. This dramatic recovery follows a steep decline in the early 2000s when numbers dropped below 25,000. The species, known for its unusual bulbous nose, is now a symbol of the country’s natural heritage. The saiga’s revival stems from stronger anti-poaching laws, expanded protected areas, and global conservation work. These efforts have helped populations grow across key regions. The 2026 spring census recorded around 2.7 million saiga in the Ural region, 1.87 million in Betpak-Dala, and 119,000 in Ustyurt.

The Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative, led by the Association for the Conservation of Biodiversity of Kazakhstan, won the 2024 Earthshot Prize for its role in the saiga’s comeback. The animal plays a vital part in the steppe ecosystem, but its rising numbers have also brought new issues. Farmers now report crop damage and increased competition for grazing land. The saiga’s population has surged from near collapse to over 4.6 million. Its recovery highlights the success of conservation programmes in Kazakhstan. However, the growing herds now present fresh challenges for local communities and wildlife managers.