The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) recently recognized May 24th as the International Day of the Markhor. It’s a great step towards raising awareness about this majestic, endangered species. Moreover, the Markhor is also the national animal of Pakistan!
In exciting news from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), May 24 has been officially named the International Day of the Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal! This decision came through a resolution supported by Pakistan and eight other countries. Moreover, the resolution aims to raise awareness about the Markhor and its conservation.
The Markhor, also known as the “screw-horned goat,” holds a special place in Pakistan’s heart. Moreover, it is found in the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia and plays a vital role in the ecosystem.
The resolution urges everyone worldwide to observe this special day and work together to protect the animal and its natural habitat. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) will help coordinate activities for the International Day of the Markhor.
Revival Of The Screw-Horned Goat
Despite once facing the threat of extinction, Markhor populations have shown remarkable recovery. The number doubled over the past few decades and experienced a notable surge since 2014.
Markhor numbers have steadily risen, doubling over the past few decades! Currently, there are between 3,500 and 5,000 Markhors in the region. The majority of them are living in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, followed by Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan.
“The population of the Markhor has been increasing with an annual ratio of 2% since 2014,” Saeed Abbas quotes. He is an official with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in Pakistan and actively participates in such conventions.
The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has been tasked with facilitating the observance of International Day of our national animal. This annual event presents an opportunity to celebrate the Markhor’s unique beauty and the ongoing conservation efforts. Moreover, It is also a chance to educate the public about the unique animal threats and encourage further action to secure its future.
This declaration marks a significant step in preserving this iconic species and boosting regional economies through sustainable tourism and conservation efforts. Let’s celebrate May 24 as the International Day of the Markhor with pride. Take a pledge to protect these magnificent creatures for generations to come!
