Turkmenian kulan

LIVING HABITS

The Turkmenian kulan is a subspecies of the Asiatic wild ass. They live in dry steppes and semi-deserts in Central Asia, but also manage well in cold conditions. They obtain most of their moisture from the scarce plant diet, which allows them to forage in more barren areas. During the driest seasons, kulans gather in small herds around water sources. As winter approaches, they form herds of up to a thousand individuals to migrate to more sheltered regions.

PROTECTION

Asiatic wild asses once roamed vast areas from the Mediterranean to eastern Mongolia. In recent decades, their habitat has diminished to less than 3% of its original range. Livestock farming causes competition for grazing land, as well as water sources, which are often fenced off for livestock’s use. Illegal hunting and diseases spread by livestock also pose threats.

The conservation of Turkmenian kulans is promoted through research and protected areas. Kulans have also been reintroduced into the wild in Turkmenistan, Kazakstan and Uzbekistan. Kulan’s wide habitat and their role as a balancer of the ecosystem also protects other species living in the same area. The Turkemenian kulans at Ranua Wildlife Park are part of the European Ex-situ Program (EEP).