The Markhor (Capra falconeri),
the national animal of Pakistan, is a large wild goat species native to South
Asia and Central Asia, mainly within Pakistan, India, the karakoram range,
parts of Afghanistan, and the Himalayas. Since 2015 it has been classified as
Near Threatened on the IUCN Redlist. The word "Markhor" meaning
"Snake-eater," originates from Pashto and classical Persain
languages, reflecting the ancient belief that the Markhor would hunt and eat
snakes. This regional myth likely arises from the male Markhor's horns, which
twist and curl in a snake-like manner, leading ancient peoples to associate
them with snakes. There are five sub-species of Markhor (Capra falconeri)
namely Astor Markhor or AstorAstore Markhor (Capra falconeri), Bukharan Markhor
(Capra falconeri heptneri), Kabul Markhor (Capra falconeri megaceros), Kahmir
Markhor (Capra falconeri cashmiriensis) and Suleiman Markhor (Capra falconeri
jerdoni), often based on their horn configuration.
As true goats of the Himalayas,
the Kashmir Markhor (Capra falconeri cashmiriensis) is the most spectacular
among wild goats. Distinguished by its large body, long spiraling horns, thick
fur, and a flowing beard and neck ruff. It is widely spread from Afghanistan to
Pakistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Indian occupied jammu and Kashmir. In
Pakistan, Kashmir Markhor, around Chitral and the border areas with
Afghanistan, inhabits a number of valleys along the Kunar River (District
Chitral), from Arundu on the west bank and Drosh on the east bank, upto Shoghor
along the Lutkho River, and as far as Barenis along the Mastuj River. In Dir
district, the Markhor accurs along the upper Panjkora River, on the slopes of
Ludak Sar and Mankial in Swat and in Indus Kohistan. Its isolated populations
also occur in Azad Jammu and Kashmir in the western extremity of the Kazinag
Range.
The main predators of the Markhor
include the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx). snow leopard (Panthera uncial),
Himalayan wolf (Canis lupus chanco), and brown bear (Ursus arctos). Young
Markhors are also preyed upon by the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). Markhor
have sharp eyesight and a strong sense of smell, which help them detect nearby
predators. They are highly alert and aware of their surroundings, quickly
spotting and feeling from threats in exposed areas.
Markhor in Pakistan faces
numerous threats that jeopardize its survival. Habitat loss due to
deforestation, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development
significantly reduces the areas where these wild goats can't live and forage.
Additionally, illegal hunting and poaching. driven by the high value of their
distinctive spiraled horns, have led to a drastic decline in their population.
Competition with domestic livestock for food and water resources further
strains their already limited habitat. Climate change also poses a growing
threat, altering the delicate balance of their mountainous ecosystems. These
challenges collectively threatened the Kashmir Markhor, highlighting the regent
need for comprehensive conservation efforts to protect and preserve this iconic
species.
The United Nations General
Assembly (UNGA) has officially declared May 24th as the International Day of
the Markhor, following a resolution sponsored by Pakistan and eight other
countries. This significant move aims to promote global awareness and
cooperation for the conservation of the Markhor. The resolution urges all
stakeholders to prioritize efforts to protect the Markhor and its natural
habitat, recognizing its ecological importance and potential for enhancing
regional economies through sustainable tourism and conservation initiatives.
On the occasion of declaration of International Day of the Markhor by the UN, a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs. 30/- denomination and Souvenir Sheet (Value of Rs. 100/-) are being issued by Pakistan Post on 24th May 2024.
