Pakistan Wild Life

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Balochistan CM orders action against hunting of migratory birds​

Saleem Shahid
April 30, 2023

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo has taken serious notice of the massive hunting of migratory birds, including houbara bustard, in Nushki, Zhob and other areas of the province.

He directed the authorities concerned to take strict action against the elements involved in poaching.

There have been reports about massive poaching of migratory and seasonal birds, especially houbara bustard, in different districts of Balochistan.

Foreign dignitaries also get permits from the Foreign Office to hunt these migratory birds.

The chief minister said the forest department and district administrations should ensure effective measures to prevent the hunting of migratory birds.

Mr Bizenjo said that hunting of innocent birds was inhumane and against the principles of nature.

“Forests and plants are a beautiful gift of nature whose protection is the responsibility of every conscious individual. We are already facing climate challenges by acting against the principles of nature,” he said.

 

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Balochistan CM orders action against hunting of migratory birds​

Saleem Shahid
April 30, 2023

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo has taken serious notice of the massive hunting of migratory birds, including houbara bustard, in Nushki, Zhob and other areas of the province.

He directed the authorities concerned to take strict action against the elements involved in poaching.

There have been reports about massive poaching of migratory and seasonal birds, especially houbara bustard, in different districts of Balochistan.

Foreign dignitaries also get permits from the Foreign Office to hunt these migratory birds.

The chief minister said the forest department and district administrations should ensure effective measures to prevent the hunting of migratory birds.

Mr Bizenjo said that hunting of innocent birds was inhumane and against the principles of nature.

“Forests and plants are a beautiful gift of nature whose protection is the responsibility of every conscious individual. We are already facing climate challenges by acting against the principles of nature,” he said.

Shoot the foreign dignitaries let's see how they feel when hunted

 

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WINGS OF CHANGE​

Climate change & devastating floods have ravaged once familiar abodes of migratory birds, forever altering way of life

BY HEBA MOEEN |
JULY 02, 2023

LARKANA/KARACHI: It had become a winter ritual for us birders to visit Lungh Lake in Larkana to document flocks of local and migratory birds, and forage for content for our documentaries. This year, however it could not be materialised, as our friend Yasir Pechuho who lives in the area, informed us of the lake’s devastated state, after last year’s floods.

Quite a number of trees had succumbed to the wrath of these floods and the aftermath depicted an apocalyptic picture ― hardly welcoming for our migratory feathered friends who decided to opt for alternate options. The consequences of flooding are still being faced by living beings throughout the affected areas, be they humans or birds, several homes have been destroyed and many are still at the mercy of aid.

However, several new water bodies had formed causing the birds to find new abode and scatter around, even influencing census figures which are known to have declined in comparison to those of preceding years. To our surprise, we even spotted a few migratory species including ducks, glossy, ibises, snipes, and even a northern lapwing in water bodies formed around the residential area of Karachi’s DHA Phase 8, near the sea in September last year.

There was abundant food available to be foraged, and these birds were found busy partaking in a lavish, protein-rich platter of insects served by nature.

The following weekend was yet another treat for us as we filmed and documented the species for which we travelled several kilometres. The glossy ibis for instance, in its black brocade-like plumage with shimmers of a variety of hues and long bill was a prized sighting, something which I previously photographed in Thar, followed by Larkana. The rain, despite the troubles, did bring in several blessings, simultaneously.

On the other hand, local bird species have been massively affected as a result of land reclamation, especially along the coasts, and poaching of course. For instance, most people are not aware of the fact that flamingoes are also resident birds and were once sighted in great numbers along the mangroves near the Mai Kolachi route. Although they still do exist in Karachi, they are threatened by poachers.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department monthly climate summary for August 2022 the month alone witnessed an above average rainfall in Sindh, which experienced an increase of 726%, breaking a 62-year-old record.

Considering the dire water scarcity in Karachi including that artificially created, had we been equipped with proper rainwater preservation techniques, urban flooding could have been mitigated. Hence, rainwater harvesting is something to invest in. The birds evidently took advantage of the water bodies within the urban sprawl, humans could have too.

According to a bird census conducted by the Sindh Wildlife Department, 613,851 migratory birds had been observed in existing lakes and such temporary water bodies in the season of 2022-23 as compared to 661,537 in 2021 which is a decline of 7.8%. However, not all hope is lost as birders from around Sindh have varying observations and points of view.

“Because of the change in climate and weather patterns i.e. out of season heavy rains resulting in floods and creation of scattered wetlands all over the country, we could never be fully sure of the population of migratory and local birds as nesting, roosting, and relaxing spots for birds are far too many,” says Nusrat Ali, a seasoned bird watcher and photographer who spends his weekends documenting birds and analysing their migratory patterns. Meanwhile Usama Tabani, a wildlife photographer (and a gem that was discovered and polished during the pandemic lockdowns when he chanced upon his newfound hobby) has his own set of observations. He has been travelling domestically and international to document bird and animal species.

“There are several factors contributing to the decline in migratory bird numbers from year to year,” says Tabani, discussing his experience of birding this year and voicing his concerns about habitat loss as a result of a series of long term real estate developments. “Some of these factors are climate change, unregulated hunting, illegal poaching and increase in human pollution are some factors but the most critical one is the loss of habitat.

As a nation, we are converting all uninhabited and wild lands, which are the lifeline for these migratory birds, into housing societies across Pakistan. We need to coexist with the wild because the Earth is what we all have in common.”

Syed Khizar Sharif, a scuba diver and birder from Karachi agrees with Tabani. Introduced by Mirza Naim Beg, the late birding guru for Karachiites, Sharif has been in this hobby for well over five years. “Since many migratory bird species rely on certain environments for breeding, feeding, and resting during their lengthy migrations, it appears that a combination of vital factors, such as habitat loss, climate change, and human activities like hunting, pollution, and urbanisation, are to be blamed for the decline of these migratory birds that we’ve observed in Pakistan,” he says. “Particularly after last year’s floods that severely affected the Sindh province.

To sustain migratory bird populations and their critical ecological functions, we must address these issues through conservation projects and ecologically responsible practices.”

Flooding may appear to be a small factor in the entire equation of habitat loss, however, the prevailing ills such as netting and poaching have been a persevering menace and despite efforts by authorities, still linger on.

Pechuho, an ardent wildlife photographer with 353 species documented so far in Sindh has quite an optimistic take regarding the realities and perceptions pertaining to a decline in the migratory bird population this time around.

Also associated with the Sindh Wildlife Department, he has also been contributing to the annual bird census. “Birds were not normally found in large numbers in traditional lakes as the flood water had contaminated these and bird feed was affected too as a result,” he says. “Migratory birds mostly land in Hamal Lake and Lungh Lake, but the numbers were drastically limited. In an unusual case, a large number of birds were found in lakes, unaffected by floods despite the fact that they usually do not descend here, but they opted for these as a better alternative.

The birds seemed to also have opted for the water bodies in Badin, followed by Tando Muhammad, and Sufi Anwar Shah Safari Park where they were found in large numbers and could be seen on roads leading towards the local reserve in the area. Badin homed about 150,000 birds this time. Also, considering the number of misplaced people, whoever got a chance was hunting for these birds for food.”

According to Pechuho, there was a decent presence of birds this time, however, they had changed their resting spots and much to our surprise, they were abundantly found in some places, thus covering the skies in a blanket-like spectacle as they took flight.

Meanwhile, some species stayed beyond their anticipated time as compared to March last year as the weather became warmer bringing him to the conclusion that bird behaviour was quite extraordinary this time around and if allowed more time for conducting the census, the figure would have been far greater than what was calculated.

Yasir’s guidance is always quite obliging whenever we plan our birding trips and his knowledge very insightful, along with his amusing narration of events. He has been maintaining a record of bird species with their names documented, not just in English, but in Urdu and Sindhi as well, something which will be great help locally.

Although it may be too early to say for sure that migratory bird populations have declined, evidence suggests otherwise and even then the difference is not significant. Once, the flood effects dissipate completely and the lakes traverse back to their glory, the next migratory pattern will reveal whatever is in store for us.

 

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Indus river dolphin shot dead by villagers in Balochistan​

Sindh wildlife dept initiates investigation, seeks action against perpetrators

Sameer Mandhro
August 07, 2023

A Blind Indus River Dolphin was shot dead by villagers in the precincts of Balochistan province on August 6, 2023. PHOTO: EXPRESS

KARACHI: A 20-month-old Indus river dolphin was shot dead by unidentified villagers in Balochistan on Sunday.

According to the Sindh Wildlife Department (SWD), the mammal had traveled at least 150 kilometres from Sukkur Barrage to Balochistan through the Kirthar Canal.

“It was spotted by the local irrigation staff,” said SWD provincial head Javed Ahmed Mahar. “The villagers shot it dead before the rescue team could reach the area,” he added.

Commenting on the matter, Sukkur Division Deputy Conservator Adnan Khan said his department is in contact with the Balochistan government to take legal action against the killers of the dolphin.

Officials said the dolphin was shot twice.

Though the SWD has initiated an investigation, no formal criminal case can be lodged by them as the killing took place within the limits of the Balochistan provincial government.

According to the last survey which was held in 2019, there were as many as 1,419 dolphins between the Guddu and Sukkur barrages. The area in which they were counted is called the Indus Dolphin Reserves.

The villagers who shot the dolphin have been bitterly criticized by social media activists.
“A tragedy beyond words. We have become a cruel society taught that it’s better to shoot first then ask questions later. Grieve the cruelty we have been indoctrinated into,” tweeted Karachi-based artist and activist Zulfikar Ali Bhutto junior.

 

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Wildlife laws in Sindh​

Reports have earlier suggested that several people in upscale areas keep wild animals as pets, as some owners see big cats — such as leopards, lions and tigers — as symbols of wealth and power.

According to officials, Sindh is the first province in the country to enact a new wildlife law three years ago — called the Sindh Wildlife Protection, Preservation, Conservation and Management Act 2020 — to protect 326 species of birds, 107 species of crawling animals and 82 species of other animals.

Under the act, the lawful possession of any wildlife species has been attached with several stringent conditions, unlike the past practice of granting a two-liner official permit for setting up a mini-zoo, and that too without mentioning any specific species.

For instance, lawfully possessing exotic big cats is attached with 39 conditions, including one under which the owner is required to get the DNA certification for the animal, which can only be done at a handful of institutes across the country.

Besides, under the 2020 law, no new application for importing big cats will be entertained. The permit also bars citizens from keeping big cats in residential areas, and an applicant must acquire a no-objection certificate from the relevant union council, town committee and cantonment board.

 

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Wild Life in Pakistan..................

 

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Ashy-crowned sparrow-lark , (Eremopterix griseus)
Islamabad

Wood sandpiper
Clifton urban forest, Karachi

 

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Auction fetches record $212,000 for single markhor kill​

80 per cent of proceeds from trophy hunting programme distributed among locals.

 

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Markhor population in Pakistan witnesses significant increase​

Markhor population reaches 5,621...

Asif Mehmood
November 15, 202

KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA: The population of Pakistan's national animal, the Markhor, has witnessed a noteworthy surge in the province of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P).

Renowned for its agility, long winter coat, and distinctive large spiral horns, the Markhor predominantly inhabits the lofty mountains of Chitral, Kohistan, and Kalam within the K-P province, as well as the northern Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) region.

According to the Wildlife Department's recent findings, the Markhor population in K-P has experienced a substantial increase, reaching a count of 5,621.

This surge is attributed to heightened awareness regarding illegal hunting practices, showcasing a positive impact on conservation efforts. Notably, specific regions such as Swat and Kohistan have witnessed pronounced increments in Markhor populations.

The detailed breakdown reveals specific figures for Chitral, Kohistan, and Swat, indicating a population of 2,427, 660, and 159 Markhors, respectively. These numbers provide insights into the distribution and concentration of the wild goat species across different regions, shedding light on the success of conservation initiatives and the preservation of this iconic animal in Pakistan.

Likewise, in January 2023, the sighting of a rare Markhor in Chitral city generated considerable excitement among the local population. Subsequently, the male Markhor was successfully captured and released into a national park where hunting is strictly prohibited, as enforced by wildlife watchers.

 

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Veteran hunter turns protector for Pakistan’s rare markhor​

Anadolu Agency
July 10, 2024

Asadullah Bazai, Pakistan’s former national shooting champion and a veteran hunter, is on a mission to save the country’s rare Sulaiman markhor, a straight-horned goat that was once on the verge of extinction due to extensive hunting and poaching.

Bazai, 55, and his team have devoted a great deal of time — and a good deal of money — to the preservation of the rare species in Balochistan.

The Sulaiman markhor is a sub-species of the markhor — Pakistan’s national animal — and is endemic to Asia.

In Balochistan, the mountainous regions of Torghar and Takatu are the two major habitats of the animal, while it is also found in small numbers in the mountains and forests of Ziarat, Sherani and Zhob districts.

Bazai, a father of five, who has represented Pakistan in several international shooting events, gave up hunting and launched the mission to save the Sulaiman markhor in 2002.

His team, comprising several former amateur hunters and wildlife photographers, operates across Takatu range, which is located in the northeast of Quetta and spans over 150 kilometres.

In 2002, Bazai met with some Hungarian rifle shooters at a competition in Karachi who changed his mind about hunting animals.

“It was a life-changing moment that transformed me from a hunter to a conservator. One of them told me don’t shoot live animals with a rifle, shoot them with a camera,” he told Anadolu.






When he launched his campaign in 2002, there were only a few dozen Sulaiman markhors left in the Takatu range.

Current estimates, according to Bazai and other wildlife experts, put the animal’s population at around 2,000, while a 2023 survey by the Balochistan Wildlife Department placed the number in the Takatu range at 1,400.

“We have involved local communities in our campaign and convinced them to not kill the animal, and also to stop hunters from doing that,” Bazai added.

‘Stable’ numbers​

In comparison to other species, the Sulaiman markhor lives in a clearer and drier climate at an altitude of between 2,290 to 2,745 metres.

Years of concerted efforts, including greater community involvement and a sustainable trophy hunting programme, have helped bring the animal’s population to the “stable” category.






A long-term project launched in the 1980s by Balochistan’s Forest Department in collaboration with a tribal chief and wildlife lover, Mir Naseer Khan, began yielding results in early 2000.

“When that project was launched, the total population of Sulaiman markhor was alarmingly low, just less than 100,” Tahir Rasheed, a Quetta-based wildlife expert, told Anadolu.

“It is the combined effort of the forest department and the tribal chief that eventually brought the animal out of danger and its population in the thousands,” added Rasheed, a former official with the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF), who is currently serving as head of the Balochistan Rural Support Programme.

In the last survey conducted a decade ago, in which Rasheed himself participated, the population of Sulaiman markhor was recorded at over 3,000.

Current estimates suggest that their number is between 4,500 and 5,000, said Arz Mohammad, a conservator at the Balochistan Wildlife Department.

Speaking to Anadolu, he said international wildlife organisations still categorised the Sulaiman markhor as an endangered species, but considering the gradual and significant increase in its population over the years, it could now be classified as “stable”.

Unlike other rare animals, the Sulaiman markhor enjoys a diverse habitat across the sprawling province.

Together with Takatu, the mountainous range of Torghar, located some 160km from Quetta, makes up the animal’s largest habitat, hosting 95 per cent of its total population.

The Torghar range is estimated to have around 3,500 Sulaiman markhors.

These habitats lie hundreds of kilometres from each other, which reduces the risk of transmission of diseases among the two populations in case of an outbreak, according to Rasheed.

Another thing that helped increase the animal’s population over the years has been a trophy hunting programme, he said.

For the 2023-24 hunting season, the Balochistan government granted a permit to hunt a Sulaiman markhor for a record $245,000, one of the highest-priced permits in the world.

A total of four licenses are issued annually to hunt Sulaiman markhor.

The remaining three permits were granted for $220,000, $218,000 and $210,000, according to official documents.

The government uses the money to support local communities with initiatives such as building schools, mosques, health centres and even providing scholarships to students.

About 80pc of the amount generated through the hunting license programme, launched in early 2000, is spent on local communities, while the remainder goes to the national exchequer.

Threats still lurking​

Pakistan is famous for the markhor, which is distinguished by its nimble and sure-footed nature as well as its long winter coat and massive spiral horns, which can grow to more than 1.5m in length for males.

Locally, the goats are categorised as Astor, Kashmiri, Sulaiman and Chiltan markhors.

Globally, Astor and Kashmiri markhors are classified as flare-horned, while Sulaiman and Chilton markhors are categorised as straight-horned.

Despite a significant increase in its population, the Sulaiman markhor is still near-endangered due to a host of threats.

“Climate change, increasing deforestation, illegal hunting and illegal wildlife trade are the major challenges,” said Mayen Khan, a wildlife expert and member of Bazai’s team.

Speaking to Anadolu, he said illegal hunting and poaching of Sulaiman markhor, including babies, was still happening despite government and community efforts.

A young markhor is sold for between Rs100,000 and 200,000 ($358 and $717), a price that encourages many locals to hunt the rare animals, according to Khan, who is also a professional wildlife photographer.

Under local laws, hunting female or young markhor is prohibited, carrying a six-year prison sentence, a fine of up to Rs150,000 ($538) or both.

But these laws are rarely enforced, and the mostly wealthy and influential violators usually go scot-free.

“Firstly, the penalty for illegal hunting has to be much higher, and then we have to ensure that it is implemented across the board, for any and all,” Khan emphasised.