LocationsUNDP Supports Country’s Efforts to Conserve Rare Wildlife Species in Kyrgyzstan
May 16, 2025
Goitered gazelles in Kyrgyzstan
Issyk-Kul region, 15 May 2025 — In the southwestern part of Issyk-Kul lake, an initiative to restore the population of goitered gazelles—a rare species listed in the Red Book that had nearly disappeared from the wild in Kyrgyzstan—continues to be implemented. The process of restoring the gazelle population began several years ago. Efforts to care for the animals, protect their habitat, and further expand the population are ongoing, demonstrating the sustainability of the results achieved and the significance of the initiative for the region.
The project was carried out by the Public Association "Argali Fund" with the support of the Small Grants Programme of the Global Environment Facility (SGP GEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision of Kyrgyzstan and the German Nature Conservation Union. This work is part of UNDP’s systemic support for biodiversity conservation and sustainable natural resource management in Kyrgyzstan.
Goitered gazelles in Kyrgyzstan
From 2021 to 2023, 27 goitered gazelles were introduced to the region, and thanks to favorable living conditions and care, the population has grown to 47 species. Enclosures were built, their habitat was expanded to 50 hectares, and work was carried out to restore the habitat and prepare for the gradual release of the animals into the wild.
Additionally, methodologies for care, feeding, and monitoring the animals were developed and shared with local communities and relevant scientific institutions.
On May 2, 2025, the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov, visited the Jeiren-Ordo area, highlighting the importance of the initiative and expressing support for the further restoration of the species. This summer, the first controlled release of 25 gazelles into the wild is planned, marking a significant step in establishing a sustainable population. According to expert estimates, the number of animals could reach 500 within the next 10 years.
The project involves active participation from local residents: over 220 people have received training, participated in activities, and continue to support animal conservation efforts. Community efforts are also focused on developing ecotourism—informational materials have been prepared, and the area is being prepared to receive the legal status of the "Jeiren-Ordo" Zoological Reserve.
Sadyr Japarov, President of the Kyrgyz Republic, visited the Jeiren-Ordo area
The project was implemented as part of UNDP’s collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic, including under the National Strategy and Action Plan for Biodiversity Conservation. These efforts aim to protect endangered species, restore ecosystems, and promote the sustainable use of natural resources.
Conserving biodiversity and wildlife is one of UNDP’s priorities in Kyrgyzstan. Through local initiatives, UNDP supports sustainable regional development, creates opportunities for community involvement, and contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals—particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
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