Authorities in Kazakhstan have reported the discovery of 191 dead Caspian seals washed ashore along the Caspian Sea coast in the Mangystau region, raising concern over another mass mortality event involving the endangered species.
Officials said the carcasses were found over the past two to three days after strong northwesterly winds pushed them onto the shoreline.
Samples collected for investigation
Konarbay Bazarbayev said water and soil samples had been collected from the affected area.
Experts from the Kazakh Institute of Hydrobiology and Ecology also gathered teeth, claws, and internal organ samples to determine the cause of death.
Seals may have died weeks ago
Researchers believe the seals likely died more than a month ago before their remains were carried to shore.
Based on previous studies, scientists said weakened immunity and reduced resistance may have made the animals more vulnerable to infectious diseases.
Endangered species under threat
The Caspian seal is the only marine mammal native to the Caspian Sea and has faced declining numbers due to pollution, habitat loss, disease, and climate-related pressures.
Similar deaths reported earlier
In 2025, authorities recorded 2,212 dead seals along Kazakhstan’s Caspian coastline, indicating a continuing environmental challenge in the region.
Further test results are awaited.