Pakistan Prioritizes Conservation of Himalayan Brown Bears

The Himalayan brown bear, also known as the red bear, is receiving special attention in Pakistan, to protect it from poaching. Hunters target the bear for its fur and claws, used for decorative purposes, and internal organs, used for traditional medicine. Found in Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, China, and Nepal, the Himalayan brown bear is one of the region's largest mammals. While not currently listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, its population is declining, especially due to threats from shepherds protecting their livestock. In Pakistan, bear numbers have dwindled to a critical level, raising concerns about its future. The government has established nature reserves to protect the species, which has led to a significant increase in its population over the past two decades. Efforts to raise environmental awareness among local communities are also crucial to ensuring the survival of the bear. Source: Saudi Press Agency