THE Ministry of Climate Change’s decision to compile a red data list for threatened or endangered wildlife and plant species is a good first step towards protecting rare flora and fauna in the country. Besides providing a framework for wildlife conservation efforts, this list will also help battle illegal wildlife trade. According to the IUCN, at least four ecosystems in Pakistan are among the world’s most biologically outstanding ecoregions. Pakistan is home to an estimated 174 species of mammals, 177 species of reptiles and 668 species of birds. Out of these, about 50 species of mammals and 27 of birds are considered endangered, while 17 species of insects are also under the threat of extinction. For the compilation of this red data list of plants, animals and other organisms, the climate change ministry will collaborate with international organisations working on ecosystem preservation and wildlife conservation. Though the list will be Pakistan-specific, it will be based on internationally recognised guidelines used to evaluate the extinction risk. According to the WWF’s Living Planet Index report of 2018, populations of mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles have declined by at least 64pc in the Indo-Pacific region — which includes Pakistan — between 1970 and 2014. The report also points out that the rampant illegal wildlife trade has badly damaged the country’s biodiversity, and it has termed smuggling of freshwater turtles and pangolins as a major cause for concern. Furthermore, unchecked deforestation over the years has caused many animals, such as the leopard, to lose their habitat.

In Pakistan, conservation efforts had been stymied by the lack of credible data and information. However, this list, by providing data about the range, population size, habitat and ecology of and threats to endangered species of animals, birds, insects and plants will be able to identify and provide an outline for effective conservation efforts in the country. The list might also prove helpful in improving regulation of hunting permits granted by the provincial wildlife departments. The data can be used to increase awareness among local communities to help preserve the natural habitats of threatened species.

Published in Dawn, October 24th, 2019