Wild Animals
The remarkable species that call Khunjrab National Park home.
Species Directory
Fauna of the Karakoram
From the elusive snow leopard to the majestic Marco Polo sheep, discover the wildlife that KVO protects.
Blue Sheep (Bharal)
Pseudois nayaur
Found on the steep slopes and grasslands, these agile climbers are vital to the high-altitude ecosystem. A world-record Blue Sheep was harvested in 2018, and KVO was recognized by Safari Club International (USA) in 2020.
Found within the protected zones of Khunjrab National Park, this species is actively monitored by KVO community rangers through camera traps and participatory surveys. Conservation efforts have contributed to stable population trends.
Snow Leopard
Panthera uncia
The elusive ghost of the mountains, found in the high altitudes of Khunjrab National Park. KVO's Snow Leopard Conservancy Project launched in 2004 successfully released three snow leopards back into the wild.
Found within the protected zones of Khunjrab National Park, this species is actively monitored by KVO community rangers through camera traps and participatory surveys. Conservation efforts have contributed to stable population trends.
Himalayan Ibex
Capra sibirica hemalayanus
The majestic mountain goat, a symbol of the Karakoram ranges and primary prey for snow leopards.
Found within the protected zones of Khunjrab National Park, this species is actively monitored by KVO community rangers through camera traps and participatory surveys. Conservation efforts have contributed to stable population trends.
Brown Bear
Ursus arctos
The Himalayan brown bear, one of the rarest subspecies, inhabiting the remote valleys of Khunjrab.
Found within the protected zones of Khunjrab National Park, this species is actively monitored by KVO community rangers through camera traps and participatory surveys. Conservation efforts have contributed to stable population trends.
Chakor Partridge
Alectoris chukar
The chukar partridge, with its striking red beak and legs, found across the rocky mountain slopes.
Found within the protected zones of Khunjrab National Park, this species is actively monitored by KVO community rangers through camera traps and participatory surveys. Conservation efforts have contributed to stable population trends.
Marco Polo Sheep
Ovis ammon polii
Named after the famous explorer, known for their magnificent spiraling horns spanning up to 140cm. Historically found in the region but no longer present in the KVO conservation area.
Found within the protected zones of Khunjrab National Park, this species is actively monitored by KVO community rangers through camera traps and participatory surveys. Conservation efforts have contributed to stable population trends.