In the natural reserve «Akzhayik» on Shalyga Island in the Atyrau region, a mass die-off of birds has occurred. The island is located at the mouth of the Ural River, where tides, low tides and debris washes are regularly observed.
According to the Telegram channel «HALYQSTAN», on 16 July, during routine monitoring, reserve staff discovered 253 dead birds. The majority of the dead were young individuals of the Caspian gull and the black-headed gull — large gulls that nest in colonies.
On 18 July, specialists conducted a survey of the area together with the Forestry and Wildlife Inspectorate. No visible injuries were found on the birds’ carcasses.
According to preliminary data, the cause of death could be natural factors — a lack of food, congenital diseases or predator attacks. Experts noted that traces of rodents and predatory mammals were found on the island.
Of particular concern is the fact that a significant number of nests have been left without adult birds. Video footage taken by reserve staff showed that many chicks were weak and struggling to move.
It is reported that on 20 July, three samples of dead birds were sent to the National Veterinary Centre of Astana. The laboratory is to test the materials for toxicity and the presence of dangerous infections. Results of the examination are expected.
As a reminder, a fish kill was previously recorded on the Caspian Sea coast in the Mangystau region. Specialists from the regional department of ecology travelled to the area of the city of Fort-Shevchenko in the Tupkaragan district to collect seawater samples. They promised to announce the laboratory results later.
Meanwhile, an independent ecologist from Aktau, chairman of the regional ecological council of the «ECOJER» Association, Adilbek Kozybak, believes that what is happening could indicate an environmental disaster. The expert is calling for strict control over all companies operating in the Caspian region.