Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 13: The critically threatened Himalayan Ibex, commonly known as the Markhor, has been sighted in Gurez valley of Bandipora district.
The sighting, described as unusual for this part of North Kashmir, has generated excitement among wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and locals. The Markhor is known for its distinctive spiral horns and remarkable ability to traverse steep and rocky mountain terrain, and is considered a key indicator of a stable and healthy high-altitude ecosystem.
An official said that the presence of the endangered animal points towards improving habitat conditions and relatively reduced human disturbance in certain pockets of the Gurez. The region’s rugged landscape, alpine vegetation, and limited human activity are believed to provide a favourable environment for the species to survive and breed.
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