Cormorants To Be Shot In Pavlodar Region

About 15,000 cormorants live along the Irtysh River in Pavlodar Region and can eat up to five tons of fish per day, Orda.kz reports, citing Irbis TV.

Officials say such appetite not only places a critical strain on fish resources, but also raises the risk of spreading parasitic diseases.

Last year, with scientific backing, more than 3,000 birds were shot in the region. In 2026, specialists recommended destroying 860 birds. According to experts, the figure has decreased because in stressful conditions the birds’ egg-laying increases sharply.

This year, we were first advised to shoot 860 birds and then assess their egg-laying. That means not only shooting will be carried out, but also a study of clutches. If possible, nests will be destroyed by smothering the eggs. We were advised to coat the eggs with oil, cutting off their oxygen supply, which causes the embryos to die.Zhasulan Zhumashev, head of the wildlife department at the Pavlodar Region department of environment, subsoil use and water resources, told the channel. 

Zhasulan Zhumashev, head of the wildlife department at the Pavlodar Region department of environment, subsoil use and water resources, told the channel.

Officials say the regulation of the bird population is scientifically justified and is being carried out strictly within established limits.

Original author: Oksana Matvyienko

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