KEY POINTS
- The Wildlife Department’s strict action against illegal hunting has boosted the Urial population.
- Large herds of Urial are now freely roaming the Salt Range.
- Legal trophy hunting of this rare species generates millions of dollars.
- Endemic to Jhelum and Chakwal, the Punjabi Urial is a stunning natural masterpiece with majestic horns and expressive eyes.
ISLAMABAD: The mountains of the Salt Range of Pakistan’s Chakwal are alive with the graceful sight of the rare Punjabi Urial, a species whose population is steadily rising thanks to the vigilant efforts of the Wildlife Department.
Once elusive, these magnificent creatures are now being spotted more frequently, captivating wildlife enthusiasts and locals alike.
Deputy Director Wildlife revealed that strict action against illegal hunting has been key to this revival.
Recent videos captured near the motorway show large herds of Urial moving freely, fearless and undisturbed, as if reclaiming the mountains that have always been their home.
The Punjabi Urial is not just a marvel of nature but also an economic asset. Legal trophy hunting of this rare species contributes millions of dollars in revenue, providing an incentive for continued conservation.
Endemic to the Salt Range, the Punjabi Urial is found only in Jhelum and Chakwal, making it the pride of Punjab.
The species belongs to a broader family of Urials spread from Iran to Kazakhstan, with six notable types in the region: Punjabi, Bukharan, Balochi, Afghan, Caspian, and Ladakhi.
Standing 70 to 90 centimeters tall, with majestic horns stretching up to 38 inches, a striking white belly, dark chest fur, and large expressive eyes, the Punjabi Urial is a true masterpiece of creation, a living evidence of the wonders of nature safeguarded by human stewardship.
