Historic Markhor Hunt in Chitral, $271,000 Record Set by American Hunter

In a monumental moment for Pakistan’s wildlife conservation, American hunter Ronald Joe Whitton made history by paying $271,000 for a permit to hunt a markhor in Chitral. This marks the highest amount ever paid in Pakistan’s hunting history.

The hunt, conducted under the supervision of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife Department, took place in the Thoshi Shasha Conservancy. The hunted markhor, aged 11 years, boasted impressive 49.5-inch-long horns.

The markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, holds cultural and ecological significance. Despite being listed as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List, controlled hunting under strict regulations contributes to conservation efforts and local community welfare.