Astor Markhor hunting permit auctioned for $186,000. In accordance with the trophy programme, the wildlife department of the most northerly territory of the nation auctioned Astor Markhors hunting licences at record rates.
A permit for trophy hunting of the markhor, a wild goat that is native to high-altitude monsoon forests in central Asia, reportedly sold at auction for more than $186,000 (5 crores and 17 lacs in local currency), according to reports in the local media.
Each year, hunting licences are issued for a number of locations, including Gilgit-Baltistan, the Kaigah Conservancy in Kohistan District, the Tooshi Conservancy in Chitral District, and the Gehrait Conservancy in Chitral District.
The highest offer made for the related species of Astor markhor this year was $186,000.
Local communities receive 80% of the licence fee under the trophy hunting programme, and the government keeps the other 20%.
As licences are granted through a competitive bidding process, the amount varies.
As Astor Markhor hunting permit auctioned for $186,000, only old, male markhorse are shot as part of the trophy hunting programme.
These animals can be recognised by their horns, gait, and physical characteristics. The preservation of biodiversity in Pakistan is now credited to this programme as a huge success.
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (Cites) and other national and international laws protect Pakistan’s national animal, the markhor.
