10 Endangered Animals are at Risk of Extinction in Pakistan

Markhor:

Yep, the national animal! It is on the brink of extinction, too. This wild goat is classified as “near threatened” by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.

Mountain Weasel:

These are creatures that live in the higher altitudes, mainly Kashmir. The habitat change is pushing their number to dangerously low. Human development is causing this change, such as the construction of roads and bridges. Their food supply is also reduced, having to share it with domesticated cattle and horses.

Asian Black Bear:

This big black monster seems to be an interesting hunting trophy for many people. That and expansion of human settlement into wildlife territory has affected their growth putting a threat on their species. It’s a shame people are destroying such things for personal pleasure.

Baluchistan Forest Dormouse:

This tiny rodent is apparently an ingredient in medicine, putting it in high demand, especially for the Chinese. An interesting fact, this creature has a crescent shape on its chest. They might look ugly and small, but they are an important part to the habitat and its cycle.

European Otter:

This endangered animal is one of the most rapidly dying creatures in Pakistan. Considering it’s a water animal, and the amount of pollution in our water, it is not so surprising why.

Indus River Dolphin:

This is a dolphin at high risk thanks to the development of the dams and other water storage and collection resources. This is one of the most recognized sea creatures we have, it would be helpful if we learn to take care of it, before it dies out forever.

Marco Polo Sheet:

This sheep, found in the northern areas, is a target for many hunters. Their spiraling horns and imposing stature are a thing of beauty, don’t let them die forever.

Snow Leopard:

A unique creature in the mountainous areas of Pakistan that is also sadly under threat. According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, as of 2003, the size of the global population of this beauty was estimated at 4,080–6,590 adults, of which fewer than 2,500 individuals may reproduce in the wild. Due to hunting and rapid human expansion, there is a very limited amount of these beasts left.This species is threatened by the human invasion of its habitat: China, Pakistan, India, Nepal. Living in a setting like the Himalayas has not prevented their number from falling to less than 5 thousand. This feline can live at altitudes over 6,000 m. Their skin is also used in trade and they feed on farm animals at times, so they are hunted when this occurs.

Siberian Cranes:

Siberian Cranes nest in scattered breeding territories, preferring wide expanses of fresh water with good visibility. Sadly, water pollution due to human negligence and selfishness is the prime cause for their decrease in population. At one time, they were a common sight in Pakistan. Maybe one day if humans keep on with their selfish encroachment, you will say the same about horses or cows.

Long Billed Vultures:

These creatures may seem sinister because they are flesh eaters, but they play an important role in Pakistan’s ecological landscape. They feed off of dead animal carcases and are an important part of the Parsi community’s ritual disposition of their dead. The deadly drug Diclofenac Sodium, which is used in the feed for cattle is a chemical compound that kills these vultures at a rapid rate. Pakistani skies were populated by throngs of vultures until 2001 and now areas like Changa Manga forest, which boasted a population of over 1500 vultures, has none today.