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This study assessed a participatory monitoring programme in Kalmykia, Russia, that employed inhabitants of the steppe to record sightings of saiga (Saiga tatarica) in three projects between 2008 and 2012. Trends in saiga numbers over the three projects were investigated using data from the three projects, and a questionnaire survey investigated the social impacts of the programme. Saiga antelope are critically endangered as a result of widespread poaching for their horns and meat throughout their range in Central Asia. Saiga horns are also known as ling yang (羚羊) and used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
A case study of the saiga antelope in Kalmykia, Russia has been used to highlight the merits and shortcomings of utilising LEK. From participatory monitoring data collected using LEK, the current overall saiga distribution has been identified, as well as seasonal distributions within this. These data suggest that species typical mass migrations may no longer be occurring to the same extent as in the past. Finally, data was collected to investigate people's perception of the factors controlling current saiga distribution, this raised important information specifically about water availability that will complement future SDMs produced for the region.
The study explores the social norms underpinning consumption behaviour, and reveals an association between perceived social norms regarding the acceptability of saiga meat and its consumption. Results from this study form a foundation for future research, and stress the need for greater understanding of the human dimension surrounding saiga poaching, trade and consumption.