Sat Dec 07 08:32:27 UTC 2024: ## Injured Markhor Rescued Near Kashmir’s Line of Control
**SRINAGAR, Dec 7** – Wildlife officials in Kashmir rescued an injured Markhor, the world’s largest wild goat, from a village near the Line of Control (LoC) on Saturday. The male Markhor, known for its impressive spiral horns, had wandered into Noorkhah village, near the Kazinag National Park, a key habitat for the species. The animal, classified as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN, was likely drawn to the village due to the breeding season.
Wildlife Warden (North) Intesar Suhail confirmed the rescue, stating that the team responded swiftly to reports of the injured animal. While the exact nature of its injuries wasn’t specified, the successful rescue highlights ongoing conservation efforts for the species.
Kazinag National Park, situated close to the LoC, is home to an estimated 200 of the approximately 250 Markhors believed to exist in Kashmir. The remainder of the population is found in the Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary. The Markhor, also Pakistan’s national animal, is found on both sides of the LoC. Conservation efforts continue to focus on protecting and expanding the Markhor population in the region.
First Piper 