Przewalski’s Horse

Why in News?

Recently, 2 Przewalski’s horse foals were born in the steppe region of Kazakhstan.

• These foals are considered the 1^st Przewalski’s horses to be born in Kazakhstan’s grasslands in almost 2 centuries.
• It represents a significant milestone in the ongoing rewilding and ecological restoration efforts within Kazakhstan’s steppe ecosystems.

“Last Truly Wild Horse” refers to the unique status of Przewalski’s horse.

• Przewalski’s horse has never undergone domestication.
• This characteristic distinguishes Przewalski’s horse from feral horses, such as mustangs, which are descendants of domesticated horses that have reverted to a wild state.
• It represents a distinct lineage within the equine family.

Historical Decline

• The species was once widely distributed across the Central Asian plains.
• Major threats to the species included:
  • Hunting,
  • Agricultural expansion,
  • Habitat loss,
  • And competition with livestock.
• The last known wild individual was observed in 1969 in the Gobi Desert.
• The species persisted through populations maintained in European zoos and captive-breeding programs.

Reintroduction in Kazakhstan

• Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative
• Began in – 2005.
• Aim – To restore approximately 75,000 square kilometers of degraded steppe and semi-desert.
• The project addresses degradation resulting from the following factors:
  • Overgrazing
  • Unsustainable farming
  • Climate change
• It is recognized as a UN World Restoration Flagship.

Przewalski’s Horse Reintroduction

• Since 2024, 22 Przewalski’s horses have been transferred from European zoos to Kazakhstan.
• The Alibi Reintroduction Centre serves as the main facility for this effort.
• The animals are gradually acclimated to survive in natural conditions.

Ecological Significance

As a large herbivore, the Przewalski’s horse plays a critical role in grassland ecosystems.

• Grazing – It regulates vegetation growth and may reduce the risk of wildfires.
• Movement of their hooves – It disturbs and loosens the topsoil, promoting soil aeration.
• Dung – It contributes essential nutrients to the soil.
• Grazing and movement – It helps to sustain healthy grassland ecosystems.
• Therefore, the reintroduction of Przewalski’s horses supports broader ecosystem restoration rather than solely focusing on species recovery.

Conservation Target

• Kazakhstan has set a target to establish a population of 40 Przewalski’s horses by 2029.
• Long-term objective
  • To establish a stable, free-ranging population.
  • To reduce dependence on human intervention.

Reference

Down to Earth | Przewalski’s Horse