‘Leopard Preserve Zone’ extraordinary jewel in heart of capital: US Envoy
November 30, 2022 09:35 PM
The United States Ambassador to Islamabad, Donald Blome, has termed the ‘Leopard Preserve Zone’ in the Margalla Hills National Park as Leopard Preserve Zone in the Margalla Hills National Park.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the US envoy along with Country Director DAI Arsalan Faheem visited the Wildlife Rescue Centre established in the old Marghazar Zoo.
Chairperson IWMB Rina Saeed Khan and Director Wildlife, IWMB Dr Tariq briefed the ambassador on the efforts of the Board in nature conservation and protection of precious biodiversity species of the Margalla Hills National Park.
Speaking on the occasion, ambassador Blome said that he was thrilled to have this opportunity to visit Margalla Hills National Park. He also appreciated the efforts of the dedicated IWMB staff working to preserve the wildlife and biodiversity of Margalla Hills.
He also mentioned that the Pak-US green alliance was also supporting various climate resilience initiatives focusing on biodiversity, agriculture and other areas related to the environment and nature.
The IWMB staff showcased taxidermy specimens of different illegally hunted animals like the Common Asian Leopard, Ibex, Markhor trophies and black buck dear and hides or pelts of Barking Deer, Red Fox, Jackal, Mongoose, Bengal Tiger, and Snow Leopard. These pelts on the display were recently confiscated in a raid by IWMB staff at a shop in F-7 Market.
During the visit to Wildlife Rescue Centre, the US envoy observed black bears and common kites, eagles and buzzards that were under the rehabilitation of the IWMB and lauded the efforts of the Board staff.
The ambassador also hiked into the Leopard Preserve Zone where he was briefed on the living natural habitat of the endangered wildcat. A short documentary on Margalla Hills National Park was also shown to the Ambassador and the participants.
In the end, Country Director DAI, Arsalan Faheem gave the vote of thanks.