CHITRAL: Dec 31, 2025: A Russian national, Mr. Andrey Zaika, hunted a Kashmir Markhor at the Gahiret–Golen Community Managed Game Reserve in Lower Chitral on Tuesday under a non-exportable trophy hunting permit.
Officials of the Wildlife Department said the hunt was carried out in accordance with the rules and regulations of the community-based trophy hunting program. The horns of the Markhor measured 41 inches in length, highlighting the animal’s exceptional size and maturity.
Local sources told ChitralToday that the Russian hunter had paid 68,000 US dollars to get the permit under the trophy hunting scheme of the wildlife department.
According to the department, regulated trophy hunting contributes significantly to wildlife conservation and community development.
A substantial portion of the permit fee will be spent on conservation efforts and social welfare projects for the local communities residing in the area.
The Kashmir Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, is a protected species, and its population in Chitral has shown a gradual increase due to effective conservation measures and community participation.
Related:
Federal Govt, KP At Odds Over Trophy Hunting Permits.