The challenges faced in these remote places are far from simple; they represent some of the the most complex situations that demand tailored solutions for protecting wildlife. Local communities in these areas directly interact with endangered species, making any action a direct fiscal impact on wildlife.
It's concerning that resources are often directed elsewhere, neglecting the most direct and real act of conservation where wildlife faces direct impact from the local population. Lack of awareness, inefficient educational programs, and reliance on outdated beliefs have brought the situation to a delicate moment, with numerous species on the brink of extinction.
Wildlife in Baiboosun Nature Reserve
Location: Kyrgyzstan
Baiboosun Gorge, Ton District, Issyk-Kul Region
Area: 14.000 hectares
Public micro-reserve since 2018
Objective: Preserve biodiversity and ecosystems
Baiboosun Gorge, Ton District, Issyk-Kul Region
Area: 14.000 hectares
Public micro-reserve since 2018
Objective: Preserve biodiversity and ecosystems
Situated in the Issyk-Kul region of the Central Asian Republic of Kyrgyzstan, Baiboosun Nature Reserve spans 14 thousand hectares and encompasses mountain peaks soaring to an altitude of 4763 meters. Pioneering community-led nature reserve initiatives in the country, it holds a significant position in the realm of snow leopard conservation in Central Asia.
Back in 2019, a team of scientists from the National Academy of Sciences of Kyrgyzstan conducted an expedition in Baiboosun Nature Reserve and confirmed a high level of biodiversity. Snow leopards and 17 other species of mammals which are included in the Red Book of Kyrgyzstan were recorded. In addition, 60 species of birds (of which 6 species are included in the Red Book of Kyrgyzstan and the International Union for Conservation of Nature) and over 500 species of plants were recorded.
Risky Data Collection
The cameras traps at Baiboosun Nature Reserve are located within the snow leopard landscape, with some cameras reaching 3800 metres altitude. The task of collecting the footage and data involves a high level of risk for our team because of this. Because of the remote location where the cameras are installed, as well as the unpredictably harsh climate in these high mountains, only the most experienced members of our team can perform this task.