Markhor

Scientific Name: Capra falconeri

Sub-species: Astor or Astore markhor (Capra falconeri falconeri) scattered populations found in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan (can be hunted in Pakistan), Bukharan markhor (Capra falconeri heptneri) occurs in Tadjikistan and possibly Afghanistan (can be hunted in Tadjikistan), Kabul markhor (Capra falconeri megaceros) occurs in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Kashmir markhor (Capra falconeri cashmiriensis) found in India and Pakistan (can be hunted in Pakistan), Suleiman markhor (Capra falconeri jerdoni) found in Pakistan (can be hunted in Pakistan)

Distribution: See above.

Habitat: The markhor can only be found in high, rocky mountains. Summers are spent at high altitudes, while during the winter these animals move to lower lying meadows and areas of montane forest.

Description: With a shoulder height as high as 115 cm and a body weight of up to 110 kg., the markhor is amongst the largest species of wild goats in the world. The Siberian ibex is somewhat heavier, but is not so tall. The spiral horns vary greatly between sub-species. For example the horns of Suleiman markhor are as regularly spiral as a corkscrew while those of the Kashmir markhor are reminiscent of a kudu’s horns, with a much flatter cross section. The horns can be up to circa 160 cm in length, when measured along the curve. It’s coat is short during the summer and longer during the winter. Bucks have a prominent mane. Bukkene har tydelig manke. Many sources note that the bucks have a pungent odour, that is stronger than that of domestic billygoats.

Hunting Method: Stalking. Preferably in winter.

Hunting Destinations: Pakistan and Tadjikistan

Conservation Status: Near Threatened. Populations of most sub-species are increasing so that the IUCN reduced its classification status to its current  levels ini 2015.