IWMB hosts Canadian envoy into insightful animal rehab

Islamabad : Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan Leslie Scanlon visited the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board's Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre here and got an up-close look at the organisation’s activities for wildlife conservation and recovery.

Accompanied by IWMB chairperson Rina Saeed Khan, the high commissioner toured the facility - an erstwhile zoo - and learned about its role in protecting and rehabilitating animals rescued from across the country.

She appreciated the IWMB’s commitment to the conservation of the country's diverse wildlife, especially species that are endangered or facing threats from human activities.

Ms Scanlon also observed the rehabilitation of several animals, including a leopard cub, Nilo, and eleven black bears rescued from challenging conditions.

She actively participated in the care of the animals by helping prepare food for animals and observed their feeding process, gaining insight into the specialised care those wild creatures require to heal and thrive.

The high commissioner also visited the centre’s veterinary clinic, where she was briefed about medical procedures and rescue missions undertaken by IWMB, including efforts to save black bears from illegal captivity and harsh environments.

A recent success story shared with her involved the release of a rehabilitated female leopard back into the wild in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir region, showcasing the centre’s commitment to returning animals to their natural habitats.

Ms Scanlon appreciated IWMB’s initiatives, emphasising its critical role in safeguarding wildlife and protecting ecosystems.

The IWMB chairperson briefed her on the board's ongoing projects, especially the Margalla Rescue Centre and Margalla View Point, saying they all are integral part of the board's mission to conserve wildlife and their habitats within the Margalla Hills National Park.

The high commissioner praised the board's efforts in preserving biodiversity of the Margalla Hills National Park and stressed the importance of international collaboration in addressing global conservation challenges.

Ms Khan and Ms Scanlon also discussed the board's future projects, including the expansion of operations and the establishment of additional facilities to support its mission of wildlife protection and recovery.