KEY POINTS
- A young female sambar deer strayed from India into Pakistan’s Narowal and was rescued by wildlife officials.
- Villagers in Karpaal held the deer and shared a video on social media, prompting immediate action.
- The deer received medical care for minor injuries before being released into the wild.
ISLAMABAD: Wildlife officials in Pakistan safely rescued a young female sambar deer after it crossed over from India into Narowal district, where villagers found the disoriented animal wandering through fields near the border.
Residents of Narowal’s Karpaal village spotted the bewildered creature darting through the fields after reportedly crossing over from India.
Unsure but concerned, they carefully held the deer until help could arrive. When early calls went unanswered, a short video shared on social media became her lifeline, quickly drawing the attention of wildlife officials.
Assistant Chief Wildlife Ranger Narowal, Muhammad Taimoor, rushed a team to the scene with the support of Punjab Rangers and local police.
The deer, exhausted from her frantic journey and scratched by thick undergrowth, received prompt medical care.
Moments later, she vanished gracefully into a nearby forest, leaving behind a fleeting glimpse of raw, untamed beauty.
Local resident Muhammad Kashif said that winter often brings such unexpected guests, as sambar deer wander near the border in search of food and refuge.
Fearing the animal might be mishandled, villagers chose caution, turning to the wildlife department instead of the police.
Officials confirmed the deer was young, healthy, and fortunate; had her injuries been more severe, she would have required intensive care at a rescue centre.
Native to the dense forests of South and Southeast Asia, sambar deer are strong swimmers and resilient creatures, but shrinking habitats and illegal hunting have put them under increasing pressure, often pushing them into unfamiliar terrain.
Chief Wildlife Ranger Mubeen Elahi vowed that rescue efforts will continue with full dedication, ensuring the safety of both wildlife and the teams who protect them.
