Population: In the 20th century, the population on lake Alakol ranged from 0 to 1,200 pairs (1977). In 2023, 3 breeding pairs were observed, and in 2024, 5 pairs. In 2017, 20 pairs nested on lake Aksor in Pavlodar region. The global population reaches 10-20 thousand individuals.
Status. A rare and endangered species. 1 category. An endangered species.
Distribution. In Kazakhstan, since 1968, it has been living on the islands of Alakol. In 1984, a case of reproduction of one pair was noted on the islands in the eastern part of Balkhash. After the disappearance of the colony on the lake in 2003-2004 a new settlement existed on the lake Axor in the Pavlodar region in 2005 - 2007. Apparently, seagulls that had previously nested on the lake Alakol moved here.
