Renowned Pakistani hunter Syed Murtaza Zaidi from Islamabad hunted an ibex on 25 April at Gulkin — a village near Passu located in Hunza Valley, after obtaining the license.

In February, Zaidi successfully hunted a large-sized ibex at the Khunjerav Villagers Organization (KVO) Conservancy in Gojal Hunza. Both trophies were above the 50-inch mark.

It is important to note that in 2021, Zaidi hunted Astore Markhor with 46 inch horn in Dashkin-Mushkin-Tarbuling (DMT) conservation area in Astore. Zaidi is the first Pakistani hunter to hunt Astore Markhor under the trophy hunting program.

Who is Syed Murtaza Zaidi?

Syed Murtaza Zaidi is known for his passion for wildlife and ethical hunting practices, and continues to contribute to the conservation efforts in Gilgit-Baltistan. He had previously hunted ibex and Astore Markhor in Astore and Gojal Conservancy.

Hunting permits

It is relevant to mention that 80 percent of the money paid for hunting permits directly benefits the local community, with the remaining 20 percent allocated to the national Treasury.

Giglit Baltistan and population of ibex

Gilgit-Baltistan has witnessed a significant rise in the population of ibex and Markhor in recent years, a testament to the successful conservation efforts undertaken by local communities.

Through sustainable hunting practices and conservation initiatives, the region has managed to maintain a delicate balance between wildlife preservation and economic sustainability.

The local community of Gilgit-Baltistan has played a pivotal role in fostering a conducive environment for the sustainable hunting of wildlife.