Several endangered species have become prevalent in Kashmir, and they may be forever gone without the soporifics of environmental and human-induced pressures. The rescue and conservation of these animals are calling for the action of all of us, for the threads of ecosystem balance in Kashmir hang very loosely these days. Hangul or Kashmir stag is one of the many endangered animals to have defined the region.
At present, there are fewer than 200 individuals alive and available in the wild. The erstwhile rampant and wild stag across the Kashmir Valley has dwindled into small habitats following a spate of deforestation, encroachment, and proliferation of human settlements.
Poaching aggravates the vulnerability; in addition, further habitat fragmentation is gaining ground. The great species represents the wealth of ecology that Kashmir has to offer while pointing toward the failure of conservation efforts in the region.
In critical endangerment and of immediate action is the Himalayan brown bear. Mostly found in high altitudes, above 3,500 meters, the Pir Panjal and Zanskar ranges of Himalayas, it is threatened because of poaching, habitat destruction, and climate change.
Though local conservationists have taken huge efforts in keeping crocodiles alive, it still remains far from its survival having habitat reduction and human-bear conflict as the main issue.
It is quite unfortunate that with these situations, there are even the more serious cases, such as that of the Kashmir Musk Deer. This is one small, elusive animal that is sought after for its musky scent, and this is the major reason for the illegal hunting of the deer so that its prized musk gland can be harvested.
Places like Dachigam National Park and the Kashmir Valley are major ones in habitat conservation of endangered species of animals such as Hangul and call for resources management. Even combating illegal poaching through improved patrol and enacted measures on laws concerning wild animals’ forms another significant action taken to reverse these exploitative scenarios.
Involvement of local communities is another important necessity in impoverished conservation. Most of them do not even regard wildlife protection as significant, particularly because their farming activities comprise other livelihood forms such as livestock grazing, among others.
Of course, rescue and preservation fall among the governmental responsibilities as well as the NGOs and even international organizations concerning Kashmir’s endangered animals.
