An American Trophy Hunter Paid $110K To Hunt Endangered Goat In Pakistan

A Texas trophy hunter, Bryan Kinsel Harlan, has sparked controversy by shooting a long-horned markhor goat in Pakistan and encouraging others to join similar hunting expeditions. 

Harlan made headlines by paying $110,000 to participate in a hunt in the northern Himalayan region of Gilgit-Baltistan, not for conservation or a noble cause, but to hunt the markhor (Capra falconeri), a rare species of mountain goat. Regrettably, he succeeded in his pursuit and was photographed with the slain animal.

“It was an easy and close shot,” Harlan told reporters in Pakistan. “I am pleased to take this trophy.”

US citizen #BryanHarlan who hunted an AstoreMarkhor few days ago at GB has said that Pakistan is more peaceful country than Mexico. if govt of Pak govt could put some investment in to tourism sector they could do great for this beautiful country.
Thank you #BryanKinselHarlan pic.twitter.com/91rd3rjghZ

— Tanveer Ahmed🇵🇰 (@Mountain_Man007) February 7, 2019

Harlan is not the only American who has traveled to Pakistan to pursue his dream. Two other individuals engaged in similar reprehensible endeavors.

Markhor goats are classified as an endangered species. In 2011, their population did not exceed 2,500. The situation has deteriorated in recent years. These goats risk extinction due to deforestation, military operations, poaching, and trophy hunting.

Harlan's trophy photo sparked a flurry of responses, prompting calls for Pakistani authorities to amend their laws and prohibit hunting. However, this did not affect Harlan, who remains proud of his achievement.

A video of the hunting expedition shows Harlan climbing a cliff and shooting a male markhor, which was sitting beside a young goat, making it an easy target.

In a separate video, Harlan thanks Pakistan for the opportunity it afforded him. He claims they received him warmly and promotes Pakistan as a safe destination for tourists, even encouraging Americans to visit.

“This is a perfect example of hunters and villagers coming together for a common goal of game conservation,” Harlan said.

Authorities in Pakistan have established five sanctuaries in India for the breeding and flourishing of markhor goats. Trophy hunters are permitted in these areas, with the authorities "promising" to safeguard the endangered species from extinction.

According to a report by The Independent, 80% of the profits from trophy hunting go to the "isolated residents" in the vicinity. Government wildlife agencies utilize the remaining funds.

Public opinion has criticized these practices, proposing that tourists should photograph the long-horned goats rather than hunt them.

Source:

www.washingtonpost.com