Latest news with #Markhor
Express Tribune
26-05-2025
- General
- Express Tribune
Markhor population sees positive trend
"With capacity-building programmes and engagement of local communities in conservation initiatives, a positive population trend has been observed in the Markhor species". WWF-Pakistan stated this on World Makhor Day while appreciating the conservation efforts of local communities in Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. According to the organisation, close coordination between conservation organisations, government departments and local communities has resulted in an increase in the Markhor species and their habitat range in Pakistan. In June 2024, WWF-Pakistan, in collaboration with Pakistan Post, issued stamps showcasing the Kashmir markhor. According to WWF, the markhor species in Pakistan faces numerous threats that jeopardise its survival. However, the involvement of communities has improved the habitat and population of these species. The markhor, declared the national animal of Pakistan, is a large wild goat species native to South Asia and Central Asia, mainly existing in Pakistan, India, the Karakoram range, parts of Afghanistan and the Himalayas. Since 2015, it has been classified as Near Threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Often based on their horn configuration, the markhor has been divided into five sub-species, namely Astor markhor, Bukharan markhor, Kabul markhor, Kashmir markhor and Suleiman markhor. Remarking on the day, WWF-Pakistan Director General Hammad Naqi Khan lauded the efforts of local communities in the protection of the Markhor species and highlighted the need for transnational conservation efforts to safeguard their future.
Express Tribune
24-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
K-P committed to 'Markhor conservation'
On the occasion of World Markhor Day, observed on May 24, Special Assistant to the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister on Wildlife, Forests, Environment, and Climate Change, Pir Musawir Khan, highlighted the province's commitment to the conservation of the Markhor, Pakistan's national animal. In his message, Pir Musawir Khan stated that the primary objective of celebrating this day is to raise public awareness about the importance of the Markhor, the threats it faces, its ecological role, and the need for its protection. "The provincial government is fully dedicated to conserving the Markhor and is taking concrete steps in this regard," he said. He also acknowledged the active involvement of local communities in Chitral, Kohistan, and other regions, noting their significant contribution to conservation efforts. He emphasized the role of the Markhor Trophy Hunting Program, which not only helps maintain a sustainable population of the species in accordance with ecological needs but also benefits local communities.
Business Recorder
24-05-2025
- General
- Business Recorder
CM's message on ‘Int'l Day of Markhor'
LAHORE: 'The purpose of celebrating this day on a global scale is to protect Markhor and wildlife,' said Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif in her message on the International Day of Markhor, Pakistan's national animal. She added, 'Markhor is found in Chitral, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kohistan and Hunza regions of Pakistan. Markhor is considered to be a majestic animal which is a symbol of Pakistan's rich natural heritage.' The Chief Minister said, 'Protection of Markhor represents our commitment to the conservation of biodiversity, and maintaining ecological balance. We all pledge to work together to protect not only Markhor but all endangered species. Historic steps are being taken to protect wildlife in Punjab.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
29-03-2025
- Express Tribune
Staff leave cancelled at Lahore Safari Zoo and Zoos for eid celebrations
Listen to article To ensure a festive atmosphere during Eid, the staff leave at Lahore Safari Zoo, Lahore Zoo, and all wildlife parks across Punjab has been cancelled. The decision aims to provide continuous services and entertainment for visitors throughout the holiday period. According to Director of Wildlife Punjab, Mudassar Hassan, the majority of the preparations are focused on Lahore Safari Park, where several special events and wildlife awareness programs will be held. Visitors can enjoy daily shows and other entertainment activities, which will run throughout the holiday. This year, food courts at the Safari Park will remain open, allowing families and visitors to enjoy food and drinks while taking in the festivities. Additionally, the park will stay open late into the evening, allowing guests to visit at their convenience. Maintenance work has largely been completed, with minor repairs to be finished gradually over the coming days. For the safety and security of the visitors, the authorities have already coordinated with the police, traffic police, and ambulance services. All necessary security measures have been put in place to ensure a peaceful and safe environment for families during the Eid celebrations. This decision is part of the government's commitment to providing a fun and secure space for the people of Lahore and visitors during the festive season. Previously, the tragic streak of rare and valuable animal deaths at Lahore Zoo persists, with the latest casualties including a female Markhor, a James' Buck, and a Sable Antelope. Meanwhile, a white tigress underwent a successful surgery for a fractured leg, and the birth of new animals has provided some solace to the zoo administration. A female James' Buck, recently imported from abroad, succumbed to an infection on Tuesday after battling health complications for weeks due to cold weather.
Express Tribune
25-03-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
Continued animal deaths at Lahore Zoo raise concerns, but new births bring some relief
The tragic streak of rare and valuable animal deaths at Lahore Zoo persists, with the latest casualties including a female Markhor, a James' Buck, and a Sable Antelope. Meanwhile, a white tigress underwent a successful surgery for a fractured leg, and the birth of new animals has provided some solace to the zoo administration. A female James' Buck, recently imported from abroad, succumbed to an infection on Tuesday after battling health complications for weeks due to cold weather. Despite ongoing treatment, the animal could not survive. Just two days earlier, a female Markhor, Pakistan's national animal, suddenly passed away. Similarly, a Sable Antelope also died, adding to the zoo's recent string of losses. Lahore Zoo Director Sheikh Muhammad Zahid stated that the Markhor appeared to be in perfect health before its sudden demise. The carcass was sent to the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences for a post-mortem examination. Initial findings suggest a possible heart attack, but the final cause of death will only be determined after a detailed report. Meanwhile, the James' Buck's death has been attributed to an infection. In another incident, a female white tiger—born with a congenital limb deformity—suffered a severe leg and knee fracture after accidentally falling into a trench in her enclosure. Veterinary surgeons from the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences successfully performed an operation, inserting metal plates into the tigress's leg. However, she is expected to undergo another surgery for full recovery. The zoo administration remains hopeful for her rehabilitation. Amidst these losses, there was some positive news as well. The zoo witnessed new births, bringing a glimmer of joy. Three Sindh Ibexes and an Oryx calf were born, offering a moment of relief to the grieving administration.
