Karachi (Research Farhan Chohan): Animals are an important part in Pakistan’s ever so beautiful landscapes. Sadly, due to increase in pollution, destruction of habitats and hunting enthusiasts, these animals are are at risk of extinction.
1. 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. There is some good news, though. It was discovered in early 2015 that their population has increased by 20%.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Black Finless Porpoise
For a sea creature to be fin-less and unique should be all for special treatment and preservation. Unfortunately, this and many other marine creatures are suffering due to human stupidity and pollution.
6. 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.
7. Vole
Due to habitat changes these little rats are facing threats of extinction, this also one of the endangered animals the WWF has especially highlighted for protection.
8. 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.
9. Branded Eagle Ray
This fish is a part of the eagle ray family of fish who live in naturally low sea areas and shallow waters. Unfortunately, water pollution – people throwing away shopping bags and waste, factories spilling their waste chemical matter and sewage – is harming this beautiful sea creature.
10. Bigeye Tuna
This is an important fish for food. Unfortunately, rapidly increasing, uncontrolled pollution and recreational fishing has caused massive drop in the number of this fish. This endangered animal is killed brutally for human pleasure.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. 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.
14. Green Sea Turtle
It’s shocking to know that one of the most fascinating creatures isn’t developing because of our man-made horrid climate. It is illegal, around the world to collect, kill or harm them but law never stopped Pakistanis, did it? These animals are captured for their shells and skins to be sold at high prices in the black market.
15. 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.
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