National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The markhor is a locally endangered subspecies with a limited distribution. It is listed in the Red Book of Uzbekistan, the IUCN Red List, and Appendix I of the CITES Convention. The species is mainly found in the mountain ranges of Kugitang, Baysuntau and Babatag. Its natural habitat also extends to parts of Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan.

Markhors prefer steep, rocky slopes at elevations of 1,500–2,500 meters above sea level. During the summer, they move higher, reaching alpine meadows at around 3,000 meters. These areas constitute their natural habitat. They live in herds and undertake seasonal migrations. In the Surkhan State Reserve, the population of this species has stabilized.

For reference: The Surkhan State Reserve was established on September 8, 1986, in Sherabad district of Surkhandarya region. The reserve is home to around 200 animal species, more than 20 of which are listed in the Red Book of Uzbekistan. The most common species include the markhor and the Bukhara urial.