Rare Ikonnikov's Bat Emerges in Kazakhstan’s Altai Mountains

A rare Ikonnikov's bat, listed in the Red List of Kazakhstan and considered one of the least studied bats globally, has been spotted in Katon-Karagay National Park.

The sighting was captured by park worker Irina Bayeva, marking an important discovery for scientists. Ikonnikov's bat, a species of vesper bat native to southern Siberia, was named after Russian nobleman and entomologist Nikolai Ikonnikov, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Previously, this elusive species had been recorded only in specific areas of Kazakhstan’s Altai Mountains, including near Chernovaya village and the Tigirets ridge. Its new appearance in the park adds significant scientific value.

The bat inhabits forest and mountain-taiga zones, prefers areas with minimal human activity, and feeds on flying insects. Ecologists highlight that this discovery confirms the high conservation value of Katon-Karagay National Park and its vital role in preserving biodiversity in East Kazakhstan.

The park has recently captured other rare species as well, including the Altai snowcock, emphasizing its importance as a biodiversity hotspot in the region.