KASHMIR MARKHOR (Capra falconeri cashmiriensis)
INFORMATION
The Kashmir markhor, also referred to as the Pir Panjal markhor or flare-horned markhor (Capra falconeri cashmiriensis), is a subspecies of Capra falconeri that is endemic to the Western Himalayas in India and Pakistan.
Markhors are pursued as an element of a community-based hunting initiative. A survey conducted by CITES and the WWF, in collaboration with the KPK wildlife department, revealed that only 300 Markhors were counted in the past. The government initiated a community-based hunting program and allocated four hunting permits annually. Additionally, it mandated that 80% of the revenue generated from trophy hunting be allocated to the local community, which motivated residents to cease poaching as a means of sustenance. The hunting program was successful, and a recent survey recorded a population of 4,000 markhors.
This animal presents a more manageable hunting experience compared to the Astor markhor or Suleman markhor; however, it is essential for the hunter to maintain good physical condition. A 40-inch horn is regarded as representable.
Altitude and Temperature:
The markhor is a goat that inhabits lower elevations in contrast to other species within the Capra genus. The Kashmir markhor inhabits arid cliffside environments in sparsely wooded mountainous areas, with altitudes varying from 2,300 feet (700 m) during the months of November to May, to as high as 13,000 feet (4,000 m) in the summer season. The elevation for hunting areas ranges from 3,000 feet (900 meters) to 8,500 feet (2,600 meters). November typically presents pleasant weather, although it can change rapidly. The typical daily temperature in Chitral during November varies from a high of 44°F (7°C) to a low of 15°F (-9°C). It is anticipated that temperatures will decrease in December. The average daytime temperature in December is approximately 43°F (6°C). In December, the weather tends to be relatively dry, typically featuring an average of three days of rainfall. January, the coldest month, experiences high temperatures reaching 25°F (-4°C) and low temperatures dropping to 3°F (-16°C).
Hunting season:
The hunting season for Kashmir markhor commences on November 1st and extends until the end of March, with the rut occurring in December. Typically, we refrain from initiating the hunt for Kashmir markhor before mid-November, as the animals tend to be located at higher elevations due to elevated temperatures. December appears to be the optimal period, as it coincides with the rutting season for Kashmir markhor. During this period, hunters may have an increased opportunity to target larger males. In certain regions, they may descend to lower elevations to associate with female groups. Late season hunts for Kashmir markhor can be challenging as the animals ascend to higher elevations with rising temperatures. This endeavor boasts a consistently high success rate, irrespective of the season.
Hunting method and number of days required:
Although most hunters just need a few days to finish a Kashmir markhor hunt, a 10-day plan is plenty. In order to cut down on hunting time, members of the local community that participate in the activity always undertake pre-scouting before hunters arrive. The typical beginning of a hunting day is at the crack of dawn. Sometimes much early, depending on the conditions. As a first step in certain hunts, hunters set out on foot from the settlement they are staying in. However, hunters are often escorted to the location prior to climbing in most regions. Spot and stalk is the standard method for hunting markhor. Every member of the community is welcome to pitch in, as this is a community-run hunt. The inhabitants will often be keeping an eye out for Markhor. As a result, they are aware of the whereabouts of large trophy-sized markhor before the hunter ever arrives.