Endangered Wild Goat Thrives in Eastern Turkmenistan

The number of the markhor, a rare and endangered species of wild goat known for its striking spiral horns, is steadily increasing in eastern Turkmenistan.

Shaniaz Menliyev, head of the scientific department at the Koytendag Nature Reserve, reported that a total of 1,572 adult markhors were recorded in 2023- the highest number ever documented in the reserve’s history. This marks a significant milestone for conservation efforts in the region, The Caspian Post reports via Turkmen media.

The markhor, which inhabits rugged mountainous terrain, is listed as a species of concern due to threats such as habitat loss and poaching. The increasing population in Koytendag suggests that current protection measures and monitoring efforts are yielding positive results.

In a major step toward international conservation, 2024 marked the introduction of International Day of Markhor, observed annually on May 24. Initiated by nine countries, including Turkmenistan, the observance aims to raise global awareness and strengthen cooperation to safeguard the future of this iconic species.