Mass Bird Deaths Reported in Atyrau Nature Reserve

A mass die-off of birds has been recorded on Shalyga Island in Kazakhstan’s Atyrau Region, part of the Akzhayik State Nature Reserve. The island is one of the most critical stopover points for migratory birds, hosting up to 100,000 birds each spring, including rare and protected species, Orda.kz reports.

According to the reserve’s press service, the first warning signs came on July 16, when routine monitoring revealed dead birds in Sector 61. On July 18, officials from the Atyrau Regional Forestry and Wildlife Inspectorate arrived to investigate.

A follow-up inspection confirmed multiple bird deaths in the area.

The exact cause of the bird deaths is still unknown. A full investigation is currently underway. the Akzhayik Reserve reported.

Shalyga Island lies within a specially protected natural zone and plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity in the Atyrau Region. Ducks, herons, cormorants, and other migratory species use the island as a nesting ground. A significant decline in their numbers could have serious consequences for the region’s ecosystem.

Reserve staff are continuing daily monitoring and are awaiting lab test results to determine the cause of the mass bird deaths.

Original Author: Daniel Arturov