Kugitang Markhor
The smallest of the argali family are found in a very narrow strip of mountainous territory, the Nura Tau range and the southern part of the Kyzyl Kum Desert, northwest of Samarkand, in Uzbekistan. Scientists classify this sheep morphologically as an intermediate between the urials and argalis.
But in 1996, working from blood and tissue samples obtained prolific hunter, Donald Cox, the Severtzov sheep is proven to be an argali.
Specie / Hunt Description
Uzbekistan is one of the most compelling, under‑hunted mountain destinations in Central Asia — a place where these rare endemic sheep, steep limestone massifs, and Silk Road culture converge into a uniquely high‑value hunting experience. What sets it apart is the combination of exclusivity (tiny quotas), species diversity, and terrain that ranges from austere foothills to true alpine basins.
Uzbekistan’s hunting landscape spans desert lowlands, arid foothills, and high mountain systems between the Tian Shan and Pamir‑Alay ranges. It is the only country on Earth where Severtzov Argali can be legally hunted — a major driver of international demand. The country reopened regulated trophy hunting in 2015, and since then has become a premier destination for mountain sheep and goats, managed under strict scientific oversight by the Uzbekistan Academy of Science.
Getting There: Hunters will be met in Tashkent (usually via Istanbul) and assisted with firearms clearance before overnighting in this vibrant and friendly city, or traveling by luxury SUV to the Jizzakh region. The drive to the hunting lodge takes 4 hours.
Hunt Strategy: Severtzov terrain comprises a mix of rock-covered arid mountains and open sidehills and valleys. grassland and craggy outcroppings. SUVs are used to cover territory with frequent stops for glassing known Hangai hangouts and movement patterns. Most sheep are taken roughly between 2,300-3,000 meters (approx. 7,000 -10,000 ft.). Shots are typically long – from 300-550 meters (approx. 400-600 yds.) on average.
Season: Essentially year-round, but when hunting Severtzov in combination with other species, certain months are recommended to account for primetime hunting of all species on combo hunts. We will advise hunt timing according to the hunt combination of interest.
Length of Hunt: 2- to 6-day hunt plus 1 to 2 in-country travel days.
Options: Various species can be hunting in combination with Severtzov Argali. Species include Bukharan Urial, Transcaspian Urial, Kugitang Markhor, Black-tailed Gazelle, Mid-Asian Ibex, Bukhara Deer, Wild Boar. Please inquire for more information about individual and combination hunt options in Uzbekistan.
