Capital

Ashgabat

Official Language

Turkmen

Fun Fact

The only officially neutral country in the world recognized by the United Nations

National Animal

Akhal-Teke

National Bird

Black Francolin

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Animal Laws of Turkmenistan

The Animal Laws of Turkmenistan PDF contains the general animal protection laws and related statutes for Turkmenistan. Uncaged World updates these bi-annually. Always check official sources for the most up-to-date legal status.

Animals of Turkmenistan

Black Francolin

Conservation Status: Least Concern

The Black Francolin is a colorful ground-dwelling bird found in grasslands, farmland, wetlands, and scrub habitats across southern Europe, the Middle East, and South Asia. Males are recognized by their glossy black plumage, chestnut neck collar, and bold white cheek patch, while females are mottled brown for camouflage. Black Francolins feed on seeds, grains, insects, and other small invertebrates while foraging on the ground. Their loud, distinctive calls are a familiar sound across their range, especially during the breeding season.

Akhal-Teke

Conservation Status: Endangered

The Akhal-Teke is an ancient horse breed native to Turkmenistan, renowned for its speed, endurance, and distinctive metallic sheen. Recognized by its slender build, long neck, and fine coat, it has been bred for thousands of years to thrive in harsh desert conditions. Highly intelligent and athletic, the Akhal-Teke has been used for riding, racing, and endurance competitions. It is considered one of the oldest and most elegant horse breeds in the world.

Corsac Fox

Conservation Status: Least Concern

The Corsac Fox is a small fox found in the grasslands, deserts, and steppes of Central Asia. Recognized by its pale gray-tan coat, bushy tail, and large ears, it is well adapted to life in open, arid landscapes. Corsac Foxes feed on rodents, birds, insects, reptiles, and fruit, helping control populations of small animals. Agile and primarily nocturnal, they often use abandoned burrows for shelter from predators and extreme weather.

Caspian Cobra

Conservation Status: Near Threatened

The Caspian Cobra is a large, highly venomous snake found in the deserts, foothills, and rocky landscapes of Central Asia. Recognized by its slender body and the distinctive hood it spreads when threatened, it feeds on rodents, birds, lizards, and other snakes. Despite its potent venom, the Caspian Cobra usually avoids people and strikes only when cornered or disturbed. It plays an important role in controlling populations of small animals within its ecosystem.

Bezoar Ibex

Conservation Status: Near Threatened

The Bezoar Ibex is a wild mountain goat found in the rugged cliffs and rocky mountains of the Middle East and the Caucasus. Recognized by its impressive backward-curving horns and agile climbing ability, it feeds on grasses, shrubs, leaves, and other mountain vegetation. Bezoar Ibexes are exceptionally sure-footed, allowing them to navigate steep cliffs with ease to escape predators. Habitat loss and hunting have caused declines in some populations, making conservation important in parts of their range.

Turkestan Ground Jay

Conservation Status: Least Concern

The Turkestan Ground Jay is a distinctive bird found in the deserts and semi-arid plains of Central Asia. Recognized by its sandy-brown plumage, black facial markings, and long, slightly curved bill, it is well camouflaged against the desert landscape. Unlike many members of the crow family, it spends most of its time on the ground, feeding on insects, seeds, small reptiles, and other invertebrates. Its strong legs and quick running ability make it well adapted to life in open, arid habitats.