Shakpak Ornithological Station
Since its establishment by the Kazakhstan government’s Institute of Zoology, Shakpak Ornithological Station has attracted scientists and ornithologists from around the world. The station’s research provides insights into migratory patterns, population dynamics, climate change impacts, and species conservation.
As of February 2025, more than two million birds representing 233 species have been banded at Shakpak–an impressive figure that accounts for 70 percent of all ornithological data collected in Kazakhstan. (This disproportionate share indicates how little bird banding takes place across the country as well as the longevity of this particular station.) Detailed measurements (like weight, wing length, feather condition) are collected from a proportion of the newly-banded birds and a few are fitted with tracking devices to further migration research.
Located at Shakpak Pass, in the foothills of the Western Tien Shan and Karatau Mountains, the station sits on the border of Kazakhstan’s Turkestan and Zhambyl Regions at 1,204 meters above sea level. Though not part of a government-protected area, Shakpak’s strategic location along a key Central Asian flyway has earned it recognition as a key research site.
The station hosts a range of programs, including field training, citizen science, and educational activities. University students and early-career experts gain hands-on experience in bird banding, species identification, migration monitoring, and collaborative research, while local and international volunteers contribute to data collection and conservation efforts. Public outreach initiatives include guided birdwatching tours, lectures, and collaborations with schools and universities, inspiring the next generation of ornithologists and conservationists.
