High stakes by Simon K. Barr
The inclusion of licensed hunting in a conservation plan is a brave move — but the success of Pakistan’s markhor strategy shows that while the risks are many, the rewards can be immense. Sporting journalist Simon K. Barr flies to the Hindu Kush to join indomitable septuagenarian Steve Hornady on a gruelling mountain hunt for a rare flare-horned markhor.
The echoes of partridge, known locally as chukar, filled the mountain air as we embarked on our journey through the Hindu Kush — the foothills of the Himalayas. With the backdrop of the sunrise, the majestic silhouette of a herd of markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, was etched against the skyline, welcoming us to this unique adventure.
In the company of Steve Hornady, who oversees Hornady manufacturing, our expedition had one of just 12 licenses to hunt markhor and capture the essence of the Hindu Kush. As spring approached, the markhor migrated to higher grounds to escape the encroaching cold and snow. Amidst the steep slopes and rocky terrain, our quest to get within range proved challenging as these agile, alert creatures with remarkable eyesight remained elusive.
To get ourselves into a potential shooting position, we trekked into a valley bottom, while the ‘watchers’ attempted to move the animals by walking more than a thousand yards from them, using their human scent to gently move them. Guided by experienced locals, we navigated the treacherous landscape, enduring grueling climbs and unpredictable weather. Witnessing these magnificent creatures’ resourcefulness in their natural habitat was a lesson in resilience. As the days progressed with no success, we would also require resolve — and plenty of it.
The region and wider country of Pakistan are fraught with concern for the markhor’s survival. Poaching, habitat loss and illegal hunting pushed the species to the brink, placing all three markhor subspecies on the IUCN’s ‘critically endangered’ list. The shift from viewing markhor as pests to treasured resources was spearheaded by the IUCN and the Pakistani government. The conservation plan included limited licenses for hunting older, non-breeding males. This strategy allowed hunters to pay substantial fees for the experience while investing 80% of the license proceeds into local communities, creating a lifeline for the species.
As watchers guarded against poaching and guided hunters to ensure sustainability, locals transformed into custodians, protecting the markhor and educating a select group of overseas hunters about their natural habitat. This conservation effort has resulted in a remarkable increase in markhor numbers, shifting them from a ‘critically endangered’ 2,000 in 2015 to 4,500 and ‘near threatened’ status today.
Malik Amin Aslam, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, emphasized that regulated hunting has been pivotal for conservation. The funds that the licenses generated support community development and help to preserve their habitat, effectively safeguarding the animals from poaching.
It was on the fifth day of our adventure when a mature male markhor was spotted, a prime candidate for our licensed hunt. Patiently watching from a distance, we observed its movement for hours until the perfect shot presented itself.
Finally at 480 yards using old-school holdover, aided by a ballistic solution from Leica’s Geovid Pro 32, he fired a long, acute angled 178 grain ELD-X projectile, which impressed everyone that witnessed it. Including him. I think he is one of the only people I know that shoots ammunition with his name on the bottom of every cartridge.
Steve’s seasoned hunting skills proved invaluable, as he took down the majestic markhor from a challenging angle. Up close, the markhor’s spiral horns, symbols of strength and power, reflected the region’s volatile history. The hunt itself transcended a mere trophy collection, embodying adventure, partnership with local communities and sustainable practices. The watchers, traversing perilous terrain, carried the animal back, a symbolic gesture of their dedication to conservation.
While trophy hunting sparks controversy globally, Pakistan’s successful model stands as an example of its effectiveness in wildlife conservation when executed with careful thought, scientific nous and community involvement. The recent dip in markhor populations underscores the ongoing challenge of conservation, emphasizing the crucial roles of the local people as watchers and custodians.
With a total of 12 licenses for the three subspecies of markhor, only four are granted per year for each subspecies. The privately-owned Prince Saif family reserve in the Hindu Kush is one such hunting ground. Running from November to April, the hunting season provides an opportunity for adventurers to contribute to conservation while relishing breathtaking scenery and confronting a challenging journey.
As we reflect on our journey through the Hindu Kush, it’s evident that the inclusion of licensed hunting in conservation efforts is both bold and successful. The markhor’s resurgence from the brink of extinction is a testament to the potential rewards outweighing the risks. Through the dedication of local communities, government agencies, and hunters, the remarkable markhor not only survives but thrives in the wild, reminding us that when conservation is a collaborative effort, the future is indeed promising.
