Order: Artiodactyla
Family: Bovidae

Status. Category III (VU) – Vulnerable species.

Importance for gene pool preservation. The only representative of its monotypic genus. The subspecies Saiga tatarica tatarica Linnaeus, 1766 inhabits Turkmenistan.

Distribution. Found in the northwest regions of the country; migrates seasonally from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

Habitat. Dry steppes, deserts, and semi-deserts.

Population and trends. In the winter of 1986–1987, 15,000–20,000 individuals migrated to northwestern Turkmenistan. In 1993–1994, the number reached 25,000. In recent years, migration numbers have dropped significantly. In August 2019, two individuals were recorded drinking at the mouth of the Deryalyk collector near Sarygamysh Lake.

Biological characteristics. Breeding occurs from early May to early June. Females usually give birth to twins. Rutting season takes place in November–December. Gestation lasts about 145 days. Birthing occurs in flat, lowland areas. Female saigas gather in large groups of 300 to 2000 during breeding. Their diet includes over 100 plant species.

Breeding in captivity. No breeding programs implemented in Turkmenistan.

Conservation actions taken. Listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List. Included in the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan since 1999 and CITES Appendix II. In 2005, Turkmenistan signed a Memorandum of Understanding under the CMS (Bonn Convention) on conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of saiga. A bilateral agreement with Kazakhstan was signed in 2007. The species is protected in the Gaplangyr State Nature Reserve.

Recommended conservation measures. Enhance protection in wintering and watering areas. Promote public awareness. Create ecological corridors along migration routes.

Research suggestions. Monitor conditions, population size, and biological status at wintering grounds.