SAIGA

Saiga tatarica

The Saiga is a species of Antelope found in Southwest Russia. The Saiga measures about 2.5 Ft (0.6 M) tall and is a light tan. The Saiga is characterized by its large, fleshy nose. The nose is used to help filter out dust and warm air in the frigid winters. In Russia, temperatures can drop to under 5℉ (-15℃.)

Siaga graze on the grasses of the Russian Steppes. During Winter migrations, they cover long distances over the plains and mountains to reach the warm south.

The Saiga is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Saigas are threatened by Urban Construction, Fires, Temperature Extremes, Disease and Overhunting. The Saiga has been hunted for centuries as its horns contain keratin. Keratin is used in Chinese Traditional Medicine. Other animals, such as the Pangolin, face the same problem. After the collapse of the U.S.S.R., regulations for hunting were weakened due to the construction of a new government. Saiga horns are still sold publicly in Asia and Russia.