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Pakistan is endowed
with a rich and varied flora and fauna.
FAUNA
MAMMALS
Markhor of which there
are five distinct kinds, is the national animal of Pakistan. The kind that
is photographed the most often is the Chiltan Markhor which, because of
its long horns looks very conspicuous. Ever since the Markhor has been
given protection its number has multiplied.
Other animals in the
park are straight horned markhors, "Gad" (wild sheep) and leopards which
occasionally migrate to the park from other areas, wolves, striped hyena,
hares, wild cats and porcupines.
BIRDS
Many birds like
partridge, warblers, shikras, blue rock pigeon, rock nuthatch, red gilled
choughs, golden eagle, sparrow, hawks, falcons and bearded vultures are
either found here or visit the park in different seasons.
REPTILES
Reptiles like monitor
and other wild lizards, geckos, Afghan tortoise, python, cobra, horned
viper and levantine may also be seen in the park.
FLORA
Amongst the flora of the
Park are the 225 species of plants. Prominent are the pistachios, juniper,
wild olive, wild ash and wild almond. Many shrubs like wild fig, barbery,
wild cherry, makhi, etc., provide food and shelter to the foraging
animals, birds and other life forms. Medicinal herbs like Ephedra
intermadia, gerardiana and nabro (densis) and Artemista (scoparia and
martima) are also found in the park. There is a splash of colour in spring
when most of the plants are in bloom. Nature lovers, students, scientists
and researchers are welcome to visit the park at any time of the year.
Permit to visit the park can be obtained from the Divisional Forest
Officer, Spinny Road, Quetta. |