Discovering Pakistan’s Incredible Wildlife: A Journey of Wonder
On August 14, 2023, as Pakistan celebrated its 76th Independence Day, the World Wide Fund for Nature Pakistan (WWF-Pakistan) unveiled a special gift for the nation. The trailer of their much-anticipated wildlife documentary series first time filmed in Pakistan titled “Wildlife Diaries of Pakistan.” This remarkable series pays tribute to Pakistan’s incredible biodiversity and natural heritage. It is shedding light on the urgent challenges these treasures face. However, these treasures are under increasing threat from habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change.
Effect of climate change on biodiversity in Pakistan:
Pakistan’s biodiversity, which plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, is also at risk. The nation faces a dual crisis of human-induced climate change and biodiversity loss.
Pakistan is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, but it also boasts breathtaking natural wonders. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the pristine shores of the Arabian Sea. Pakistan’s landscapes are as varied as its people. This documentary series aims to showcase and celebrate the country’s rich natural diversity. It covers deserts, mountains, forests, caves, polar regions, fresh water, lakes, plains, and jungles.
Environmental challenges:
While Pakistan’s natural beauty is undeniable, it faces mounting threats. The loss of precious biodiversity is a concern that demands immediate attention. According to WWF’s 2022 (wildlife documentary)Living Planet Report, global wildlife populations, including mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish, have declined by a staggering 69% on average since 1970. On the other hand, this alarming trend is a stark reminder of the planet’s deteriorating health.
WWF-Pakistan’s commitment to preserving biodiversity is exemplified by the “Wildlife Diaries of Pakistan” series. Naveed Qamar of Cyber Productions directed this series. Embodies not only love for the nation but also the responsibilities as custodians of its extraordinary natural treasures.
WWF-Pakistan created the Wildlife documentary series, Wildlife Diaries of Pakistan. It aims to show viewers the incredible lives of Pakistan’s special animals and the places they call home. In brief, each episode reminds us of how valuable our natural world is.
Wildlife diaries of Pakistan release date:
Mark your calendars for September 20, 2023. This is when the first episode wildlife documentary of “Wildlife Diaries of Pakistan” will be available to watch on WWF-Pakistan’s official YouTube channel. Stay tuned for this unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the wonders of Pakistan’s biodiversity.
Which species of wildlife is unique to Pakistan?
Pakistan, with its diverse landscapes ranging from mountains to deserts, is home to several endangered wild animal species facing various threats. Here are some of the endangered wild animal species in Pakistan:
- Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia): The snow leopard is a magnificent big cat adapted to the high-altitude regions of northern Pakistan.
- Indus River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica minor): This unique freshwater dolphin species inhabits the Indus River.
- Markhor (Capra falconeri): Markhor, a wild goat species, is found in the mountainous regions of Pakistan.
- Houbara Bustard (Chlamydotis macqueenii): The Houbara bustard is a migratory bird that travels to Pakistan from Central Asia during the winter.
- Pakistani Sand Cat (Felis margarita scheffeli): The Pakistani sand cat is a small wild cat species adapted to the arid deserts of Pakistan.
- Asiatic Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus): The Asiatic black bear is found in the northern mountainous regions of Pakistan.
- Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus): This critically endangered crocodilian species is found in the Indus River.
- Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata): The pangolin is a scaly anteater that inhabits parts of Pakistan.
- Sindhi Toad-headed Agama (Phrynocephalus scutellatus): This small lizard species is native to the arid regions of Pakistan.
- Deosai Brown Bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus): Deosai National Park in Pakistan is the house of this brown bear.
- Himalayan lynx cat: The Himalayan lynx is in danger because it’s losing its home.
Himalayan lynx cat hunting:
A rare animal called a Himalayan lynx cat, known for being very secretive and hunting at night, was filmed for the first time in Chitral, by the WWF-Pakistan team. While a team was trying to film a different animal called the Kashmir markhor, they unexpectedly saw the Himalayan lynx cat hunting a young markhor by a river. After making sure its prey was dead, the Himalayan lynx cat took a break in a tree. The filmmakers waited for a while before the Himalayan lynx cat came back to eat the markhor. They managed to get close using a river as a barrier and even took drone pictures of the Himalayan lynx cat resting on a rock afterward. This is a significant discovery because not much is known about these elusive lynxes in this area.
As Pakistan faces problems like climate change and the loss of its diverse wildlife, “Wildlife Diaries of Pakistan” is like a loud alarm ringing in our ears. Furthermore, it tells us how crucial it is to take care of our environment for us and for the generations that come after us. So, let’s start this adventure to understand, preserve, and keep safe the amazing nature of Pakistan.
