Nature’s master strokes perfected by man

The National Reserve is spread over 140 square kilometers in the Zabarwan mountain range and shelters some of the most unique animal species, flora, and fauna. This includes the last population of the hangul, or Kashmir stag, a vulnerable species endemic to the region. The green and verdant thick cover shelters the Asiatic black bear, Himalayan brown bear, Indian leopard, and a host of other species, making it a crucial biodiversity hotspot. The place also has the most eclectic collection of bird species. It has raptors like the Eurasian eagle owl and Lammergeier to colorful species such as the Himalayan monal and western tragopan. It is undoubtedly a birdwatcher’s paradise. But this place is not just about conserving the flora and the fauna. It is invaluable as it offers ecological services to nearly half the catchment area of the famous Dal Lake.

Preserving nature’s treasures

The National Park is a place of pride and beauty to the people of Kashmir. The efforts to conserve the sanctity of this serene green environment are honest and full of fervor. That’s why the Wildlife SOS acts as an important narrative of Dachigam National Park. It not only carries out biennial population censuses of the hangul in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Wildlife Protection Department and local students but also addresses human-wildlife conflicts, particularly those involving Asiatic black bears and reptiles. Their Dachigam Bear Rescue Centre is a testament to these efforts, providing a haven for bears rescued from adverse conditions.

The perseverance of the organization is reflected in their rescue operations where they extend their help to even reptiles like the Himalayan trinket snake. These initiatives also blur away fear and ignorance that exist about wildlife among the local population, promoting coexistence and respect for the natural world.