Leopards spotted in Karabakh signal conservation success in Azerbaijan PHOTO

In a remarkable development for biodiversity conservation efforts in Azerbaijan, leopards have been observed thriving in the Karabakh region, specifically in the direction of Kalbajar.

This milestone was announced by Elshad Asgarov, the director of Azerbaijan's World Wide Fund (WWF) office, during a press conference held at the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources (MENR) on the topic of "Leopard Population in Azerbaijan: Efforts in Biodiversity Restoration and Ecotourism Development," Caliber.Az reports via the ministry.

According to Asgarov, the sighting of leopards in Kalbajar follows intensive tracking and monitoring efforts undertaken jointly by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, IDEA Public Union, and WWF. These efforts have yielded high-quality photos and videos, showcasing the presence of leopards in the area.

"The dense population of bezoar goats, which are natural prey for leopards, has played a crucial role in supporting the spread of this rare species in Karabakh," noted Asgarov, underscoring the ecological conditions conducive to leopard habitation in the region.

Historically, the Zangezur and Talish mountains have been identified as key habitats for leopards in Azerbaijan. Asgarov highlighted that the recent sightings in Karabakh and around Lake Mingachevir in the Greater Caucasus Mountains are outcomes of deliberate governmental efforts aimed at restoring and expanding the leopard population.

"Our country's commitment to biodiversity restoration and protection has created fertile conditions for leopards to thrive in Karabakh and Kalbajar," stated Asgarov, expressing confidence in the effectiveness of ongoing conservation initiatives.

Monitoring of leopards in Azerbaijan commenced in 2002, leading to significant milestones such as the first photographic evidence of leopards in the Talish mountains in 2007 and later in Zangezur in 2012. Notably, recent monitoring efforts have resulted in the documentation of 9 adult leopards and 9 cubs in Nakhchivan, and 8 adults and 2 cubs in the Hirkan forests.

"The successful birth and rearing of leopard cubs in Azerbaijan mark a significant conservation achievement within the Caucasus region," remarked Asgarov, emphasizing the critical role of Azerbaijan in safeguarding the species.

Reflecting on historical records, Asgarov highlighted the longstanding presence of leopards in Azerbaijan, with archaeological finds dating leopard remains back to 400,000-300,000 years and petroglyphs depicting leopards found in various Azerbaijani locations.

"In recent decades, concerted conservation efforts have reversed the decline of leopard populations caused by anthropogenic pressures," concluded Asgarov, underscoring Azerbaijan's pivotal role in the conservation of this iconic species within its northernmost habitat range.

The resurgence of leopards in Karabakh and Kalbajar stands as a testament to Azerbaijan's commitment to environmental stewardship and biodiversity conservation, promising a future where these majestic creatures continue to roam the Caucasus mountains.