An Amur tiger named Amur has been released into the Ile-Balkhash Nature Reserve, becoming the second predator to be returned to the wild in Kazakhstan under the reintroduction programme. The first was a female tiger named Umit, which has already adapted successfully to its new habitat. Before their release, the animals underwent veterinary examinations and behavioural assessments. In May this year, Russia transferred four Amur tigers to Kazakhstan. Two tiger cubs will be released into the reserve later, in spring or summer 2027, after they have adapted. Overall, Kazakhstan plans to release at least ten tigers into the wild by 2033.
«The release of two tigers into the wild marks the first tangible result of many years of work. Our priority now is to ensure continuous monitoring of the animals, preserve their natural habitat, and continue efforts to restore their food base. Our ultimate goal is to establish a sustainable tiger population in the Ili River Delta and the Southern Balkhash region, capable of reproducing independently in its natural environment. We will continue this work in stages, guided by expert recommendations and scientific data,» said Alibek Kuantyrov, Kazakh Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources.
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