Visit to Azerbaijan regarding the reintroduction of gazelles

On December 15, 2013 the workshop regarding the reintroduction of gazelles from Azerbaijan to Georgia was held in Baku, Azerbaijan, which was attended by the Deputy Minister of the Agency of Protected Areas Lasha Moistsrapishvili. The mentioned project is supported by the World Wildlife Fund  (WWF) Caucasus Office and aims at improvement of ecosystem biodiversity in a transboundary Priority Conservation Area, Iori-Mingechauri.

The workshop participants discussed gazelle reintroduction / monitoring related issues and measures on how to improve cross-border cooperation between Georgia and Azerbaijan, together with other important topics.

As a result of the workshop it was decided that because in present circumstances it is more expedient to release 8 gazelles in the nature close to Azerbaijani-Georgian border after which they will be directed to proceed to Vashlovani National Park. 

Introduction of gazelles is one of the best examples of biodiversity restoration in the region and according to their adaptation process in the new environment, for 2014 it is planned to bring 15 more gazelles to their historical habitats. The total number of reintroduced gazelles shall reach 150.