Fauna of Hazarganji Chiltan National Park and Ecotourism

Pakistan has 236 protected areas including 23 national parks. The Hazarganji Chiltan National Park was established for the protection and conservation of Chiltan Markhor. The present study was undertaken during 2006-2009 on bioecology and fauna of Hazarganji Chiltan National Park and development of ecotourism in protected areas. During the study 30 species of mammals, 120 species of avifauna, 25 species of reptiles and 4 species of amphibians have been recorded. Several other protected areas of Pakistan were also studied for the development and promotion of ecotourism, such as Khunjerab National Park, Ghamot National Park, Deva Vatala National Park, Haleji Lake, Keenjhar Lake and Hub Dam with proposed activities like Wildlife Safari, Bird Safari, Nature Safari, Nature Trails and Tracks, Sightseeing, Hiking, Rock Climbing, Para Gliding, Mountaineering, Snow Leopard Safari, Boating, Fishing etc. The park is an important last remaining refuge of the Chiltan Markhor (Capra falconeri chialtanensis).