Astore Markhor

The markhor (Capra falconeri) is one of the largest and most magnificent members of the Caprinae or goat family, and it is the official “National Animal of Pakistan.” It has perhaps the most impressive horns of the family, with huge, spiraled, twisting horns that are either straight or flaring in outline depending on the subspecies.

Markhor are incredible climbers, scaling cliffs with ease and even climbing into oak trees to feed on leaves. Threats include intense hunting pressure, increasing competition from domestic goats and sheep, and disease outbreaks from the increased contact with livestock.