ASTANA – Autumn brings one of nature’s most remarkable seasonal events to Kazakhstan, as migratory birds cross the country on their way to warmer wintering grounds. Its diverse landscapes serve as an important corridor for numerous species, including rare birds listed in Kazakhstan’s Red Book.
A young steppe eagle named Tungysh, born in Altyn-Emel National Park. Photo credit: the park’s press service Whooper swans fly over Katon-Karagai National Park Flocks of whooper swans have been spotted flying over Katon-Karagai National Park. Photo credit: gov.kz In East Kazakhstan, flocks of whooper swans have been spotted flying over Katon-Karagai National Park, adding to the region’s autumn scenery, reported the Forestry and Wildlife Committee of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources on Nov.3.
Kazakhstan is an important stopover along the migration route of northern whooper swan populations. After raising their young in wetlands across western and eastern Siberia, the birds head toward Central and South Asia as winter approaches. The committee has also highlighted the swans’ distinctive behavior, which has inspired legends for centuries.
The birds form strong pairs that can remain together for many years and often for life, although they may find new mates after losing a partner. “Whooper swans are indeed monogamous. They form strong pairs that can last for many years and often for life. However, after a period of loss, a swan can eventually find a new mate.
This is a natural part of life in the harsh conditions of the wild,” the committee said. Experts encourage residents and visitors to look up while walking through the region’s mountain valleys. The flocks’ distinctive trumpet-like calls can be heard until the lakes and rivers freeze over.
Young steppe eagle begins its first migration Kazakhstan is an important stopover along the migration route of northern whooper swan populations. Photo credit: gov.kz While the swans follow established seasonal routes, researchers are also tracking the first migration of a young steppe eagle named Tungysh, whose journey offers a closer look at how individual birds navigate the region.