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In a controversial move, an American trophy hunter paid a staggering $125,000 (Rs349 million) to hunt a Kashmiri markhor, the national animal of Pakistan. The markhor population in Pakistan has seen an increase over the years, with the trophy hunting program contributing to their conservation efforts.
On February 18, 2024, Robert Myles Hall engaged in trophy hunting near Gahirat-Golen community game reserve during the third trophy hunting session of the season. According to a Wildlife Department official, the hunted markhor was eight years old with its horn size recorded at around 38 inches.
Read more: Record-Breaking $186,000 Bid for Astor Markhor Hunting Permit
The 2024 hunting season commenced with the hunting of a 9.5-year-old markhor in Lower Chitral in December of the previous year. Local representatives and wildlife officials closely monitored the hunting expedition to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
Under the trophy hunting program, two hunting licenses for markhor are issued annually and 80% of the total cost is distributed among the local community, while the remaining 20% is deposited into the national treasury. This program specifically targets older male markhors for hunting, as they can be identified by their horns, gait and body structure. The trophy hunting initiative is widely regarded as a success in the preservation of biodiversity in Pakistan.
It’s important to note that the markhor is protected by both local and international laws including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Despite the success of the trophy hunting program in promoting conservation and community involvement, such practices continue to be contentious due to ethical and animal rights concerns.
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