Nesting and Migratory Bird Counts in Mangystau (Kazakhstan) to Inform Renewable Energy Planning

This project conducts field monitoring of nesting and migrating birds in Mangystau Oblast (western Kazakhstan), a key part of the Central Asian–Indian flyway and an area facing rapidly growing wind and solar development linked to “green hydrogen” ambitions. Through recurring Birds and Wildlife Camps and seasonal surveys, partners collect biodiversity data across priority sites such as the Ustyurt Plateau, Mangyshlak Peninsula, and Kenderli Bay. The goal is to generate credible field evidence that helps balance renewable energy development with biodiversity conservation—highlighting sensitive areas for migratory species and raptors, and supporting better siting and mitigation measures to reduce impacts of energy infrastructure. ## Key facts - **Target species/group:** Migratory water and land birds; key focus on raptors (e.g., Steppe Eagle, Saker Falcon, vultures); also Macqueen’s Bustard and Goitered Gazelle - **Activity type:** Conservation; Research; Citizen science; Outreach - **Themes:** Green Energy & Birds; Habitat monitoring; Raptors; Education & outreach - **Implementing organization:** Initiative Group (supported by NGO Tabigi Orta), CINEST, EcoMuseum Karaganda, NABU, EcoMangystau, OSME (and partners) - **Timeline:** Ongoing (autumn camps; spring breeding bird counts) - **Donor / Budget:** NABU; OSME; Green Grants — 15,000/year (2024–2025); some funding secured for 2026 (NABU) ## Key outcomes / expected outputs - Field data to support a coalition of nature conservation actors working on energy planning in Mangystau - Public dissemination of findings (social media and open communications) and targeted sharing with conservation bodies and decision-makers - Evidence to highlight that many selected areas for wind/solar development overlap with high biodiversity value zones, especially for migratory species