The Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan has declared the desert ecosystem’s rare and scarcely encountered species — the desert partridge — as the “Bird of the Year” for 2026. Environmental experts state that this choice aims to draw greater attention to the ecological problems of the country’s arid zones.
The desert partridge (also known as chil or kabki zirak) is a medium-sized, shy, and secretive bird that inhabits mainly the dry regions of Central Asia. In Tajikistan, this species is very rare: its primary range is limited to the country’s southern and western desert and semi-desert areas. Ornithologists note that the number of desert partridges has been steadily declining over the years.
Experts emphasize that the decrease in the species’ population is influenced by several factors:
— the destruction of natural habitats;
— the expansion of agricultural lands;
— the lack of monitoring programs;
— the excessive spread of grasses.
The partridge’s appearance is also interesting: its body is compact, its color sandy or gray-brown with blueish tones, providing excellent camouflage in the desert landscape. When sensing danger, it prefers to run quickly and hide among rocks and bushes rather than take flight.
By naming the desert partridge the “Bird of the Year,” scientists and ecologists once again remind the public of the state of the desert fauna, the impact of climate change, and the importance of protecting endangered species.
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