What is the current status of Pakistan's Asiatic black bear population?

The Asiatic black bear population in Pakistan is under severe pressure, with its numbers shrinking and becoming increasingly fragmented due to habitat loss, deforestation, and human-wildlife conflict.

How many Himalayan brown bears are left in Pakistan?

According to the article, around 150-200 Himalayan brown bears survive in small, isolated populations across northern Pakistan, with the most stable population found in Deosai National Park.

What is the conservation status of the Balochistan black bear in Pakistan?

The Balochistan black bear is now critically endangered in Pakistan, with fewer than 50 mature individuals remaining. Experts consider this subspecies to be among the least studied large carnivores in the country.

Home / Environment / Pakistan's Bear Populations Plummet by 20-30% Amid Mounting Threats

Pakistan's Bear Populations Plummet by 20-30% Amid Mounting Threats

21 Oct

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Summary

Bear populations in Pakistan have declined by 20-30% over the past decade
Habitat loss, deforestation, and human-wildlife conflict are leading causes
Fewer than 2,500 bears remain across the country, with the Balochistan black bear critically endangered

According to recent reports, Pakistan's bear populations have faced a significant decline over the past decade. Experts estimate a 20-30% drop in the number of bears, with habitat loss, deforestation, and human-wildlife conflict cited as the leading causes.

While no comprehensive nationwide surveys have been conducted, indirect indicators such as habitat degradation, increased human-bear conflicts, and poaching reports all point to a worrying trend. The Asiatic black bear, once widespread across Asia's forests, is now under severe pressure in Pakistan, with its population shrinking and becoming increasingly fragmented.

The situation is particularly dire for the Balochistan black bear, which is now critically endangered in the country, with fewer than 50 mature individuals remaining. Experts warn that this subspecies is among the least studied large carnivores in Pakistan.

Overall, it is estimated that fewer than 2,500 bears remain across the country, with the Himalayan brown bear population faring slightly better, with around 150-200 individuals surviving in small, isolated pockets. Conservation efforts in Deosai National Park have led to population growth in recent years, but the overall trend remains concerning.

Urgent action is needed to protect Pakistan's bear populations, including habitat restoration, conflict mitigation, and long-term monitoring. Engaging local communities in conservation efforts is also crucial to ensure the survival of these ecologically important species.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.