The Astrakhan region will count saiga populations using the ZALA unmanned aerial vehicle system

In the Stepnoi State Nature Reserve in Astrakhan Oblast, preparatory work was carried out for a saiga population count using the ZALA 421-16E unmanned aerial vehicle. The count is scheduled to be completed in spring.

The Astrakhansky Reserve is Russia's only habitat for the pair-hoofed mammal. The population is on the verge of extinction due to poaching.
The problem was compounded by the fact that experts had previously lacked accurate data on the number of individuals and the ratio of males to females.
All counting methods used were ineffective, as manned vehicle and aerial surveys scattered animals due to loud noise, and it is often impossible to spot saigas on satellite images, let alone estimate the sex and age structure of the population.

The ZALA UAV is completely silent and unobtrusive, with high-resolution imagery providing a detailed image of the ground surface. Built-in geodetic equipment ensures accurate georeferencing of each image, so the error in animal counting is minimal.

The accurate data obtained will be the basis for an effective system of conservation and population increase of these rare animals.