Protect the endangered

The primary cause of the most major threats to the animals of Pakistan are Pakistanis themselves. Activities like deforestation and appropriating land for agriculture or human settlements lead to habitat loss for these animals, exposing them to the danger of migrating to an unfamiliar habitat where their survival is at risk. Hunting these animals for meat, skin or parts of their bodies has led to a significant decrease in their population.

According to various sources, the most endangered species in Pakistan as of 2023 are the snow leopard and the Indus River dolphin. Pakistan is part of the snow leopard’s range across Central and South Asia. 

According to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) there is an estimated global population of only 6,000-6,500 snow leopards, including a mere 300-400 in Pakistan. The presence of snow leopards is often an indicator of a healthy mountain ecosystem. The Indus River dolphin, which is native to Pakistan, is also endangered as of 2023. The presence of Indus River dolphins serves as an indicator of health of the river ecosystem. As one of the rarest freshwater dolphins, they also hold cultural significance in Pakistan. According to the WWF, approximately 2,000 specimens of this species exist in a small fraction of their former range. Their conservation and protection require immediate attention. Previously, Pakistan’s national animal, Markhor was listed as an endangered species but its population doubled in three decades due to conservational efforts by the government of Pakistan. It is important for the government, environmental organizations and citizens to unite and implement strong conservation strategies. Pakistan’s natural heritage is at stake, and the time to act is now.

Shifa Aziz Memon

Karachi