Kyrgyzstan is home to over 500 species of vertebrate animals and more than 4,000 species of plants, many of which are endemic—found nowhere else in the world. Among the rare and endangered animals found in the country are the snow leopard (irbis), Tibetan fox, dhole (Asiatic wild dog), bearded vulture (lammergeier), and the argali — a rare subspecies of mountain sheep.

The national Red Book lists more than 300 species of plants and animals threatened with extinction. It serves as a crucial foundation for biodiversity conservation, guiding scientific research, conservation efforts, and the development of environmental legislation.

Kyrgyzstan plays a vital role in maintaining the region’s ecological balance. Its high-mountain forests, glaciers, and rivers feed the major waterways of Central Asia and provide essential resources for millions of people. The protective functions of its ecosystems — including climate regulation, erosion prevention, and water cycle support — make Kyrgyzstan’s natural environment not only unique but indispensable for the region’s sustainable future.