LEEPA VALLEY (Kashmir English): The Kashmir Musk Deer, one of the most unique animals in the world, is famous for its distinctive scent and has been considered a globally endangered species.
The Kashmir musk deer, native to Afghanistan, India, Nepal, and Pakistan, is hunted for its musk pod located near its belly, which releases a valuable aromatic substance, which has been used in perfumery and medicine for centuries.
Leepa Valley in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), which is famous for its natural beauty and dense forests, was once a paradise for this rare deer. These deer were found in large numbers in the Leepa Valley’s forests and they were sighted commonly.
However, over time, illegal hunting and human interference caused serious damage to their population because livestock grazing, urban expansion, and the collection of wood damaged the montane habitat.
Musk deer were ruthlessly hunted for their valuable musk, which has a high demand in the international market. Hunters put Kashmir Musk Deer to death for just a few grams of musk, bringing it closer to extinction.
The Gurez National Park, also known as Musk Deer National Park, is one of the protected areas for Kashmir musk deer and other endangered Himalayan musk deer species in Azad Kashmir.
The Gurez National Park, located in the Gurez Valley in Neelum District, nestles among the Pir Panjal Range and the Lower Himalayan Range in the Himalayan foothills. It was established to protect the endangered musk deer species and in total the park is currently the home to some 19 mammals, 100 birds, and a few reptiles.
If urgent steps are not taken to save this beautiful creature, it will disappear from the forests of the Leepa Valley forever. The government and the local people must work together for its protection, strictly ban hunting, and start wildlife restoration projects. The musk deer is not just an animal, but an important part of the natural beauty of the Leepa Valley.
