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

Saigas first appeared around 50,000 to 70,000 years ago, during the era of mammoths and the Ice Age, and have managed to survive to the present day.

However, today, the existence of saigas is under serious threat. The conservation of saiga populations is critically important for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring ecological sustainability. For this reason, saiga conservation was given special attention during the recent "Goodwill Ambassadors of the Aral Sea Region" conference held in Karakalpakstan.

For reference: In 2016, in order to support the growth of saiga populations, the Saigachy Natural Landscape Reserve was established across the Muynak and Kungrad districts of Karakalpakstan. The reserve covers a total area of 628,300 hectares, including a 219,800-hectare buffer zone.