Question

What has caused the drop in saiga numbers? What people should do?​

Answer 1

Ответ:

Poisoning is considered to be the direct cause of death of more than 500 types. As in several recent cases, mostly females with cubs died.

Answer 2

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, saiga antelope populations had been experiencing significant declines primarily due to several factors:

1. Disease Outbreaks: In 2015 and 2016, a catastrophic die-off occurred in Kazakhstan, affecting more than 200,000 saiga antelopes. The exact cause was identified as a bacterial infection (Pasteurella multocida), which can spread quickly in large herds.

2. Poaching: Illegal hunting for saiga horns, which are highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine, has been a major threat to their populations. The horn is falsely believed to have medicinal properties, driving a black market demand.

3. Habitat Loss: Saiga antelopes depend on grasslands for their survival, and habitat loss due to agriculture, infrastructure development, and mining activities has reduced their available range.

4. Climate Change: Climate change can affect the availability of food and water for saiga antelopes, making it more challenging for them to survive.

To address the decline in saiga numbers and help conserve the species, several actions can be taken:

1. Anti-Poaching Measures: Strengthening law enforcement efforts to combat poaching, including increasing penalties for illegal hunting and trading of saiga products, can help reduce this threat.

2. Habitat Protection: Creating and maintaining protected areas and conserving natural grasslands where saigas live can help secure their habitat.

3. Disease Monitoring and Management: Regular monitoring of saiga populations for signs of disease outbreaks can help detect and respond to health crises promptly.

4. Community Involvement: Involving local communities in conservation efforts can help raise awareness, provide livelihood alternatives, and foster a sense of stewardship among those living near saiga habitats.

5. International Cooperation: Collaboration between countries in which saiga antelopes are found is essential, as their migratory patterns often span multiple nations. International agreements and partnerships can facilitate coordinated conservation efforts.

6. Research and Education: Funding and supporting research on saiga antelopes, their behavior, and their habitat requirements can provide valuable insights for conservation. Additionally, educating the public about the importance of saiga conservation can generate support.

Please note that the situation may have evolved since my last update, so it's essential to consult more recent sources and conservation organizations for the latest information on saiga antelope conservation efforts and their current status.