A hedgehog deer that had wandered into a residential area in Shakargarh city of Punjab province’s Narowal district was successfully rescued and returned to its natural habitat by the Punjab Wildlife Department.
The animal strayed into Mohalla Ansariya, prompting some locals to attempt capturing it. Wildlife officials quickly intervened, administered first aid, and released the deer into the Benhal protected forest.
Punjab Rangers supported the rescue team during the operation, ensuring a smooth and secure release.
Deputy Chief Wildlife Ranger Sheikh Zahid Iqbal praised the joint efforts, saying the timely response helped preserve a vulnerable species and raised public awareness about wildlife protection.
He noted that such animals, including deer and nilgai, often cross into Pakistan from India while fleeing poachers or seeking food. Once inside Pakistan, they are given necessary care and protection.
The rescue highlights ongoing efforts by Pakistani authorities to protect biodiversity and educate citizens about the importance of conservation.
Earlier, a rare Indian grey wolf was killed by shepherds near Bahawalpur, raising alarm among conservationists about the safety of endangered species in Pakistan’s rural regions.
Deputy Chief Wildlife Ranger Syed Ali Usman confirmed that local shepherds tracked and killed the animal in a rural area. The carcass has been recovered and sent for post-mortem.
Authorities are investigating the incident under the Punjab Protected Areas Act 2020 (Amended 2025) and have pledged to file a case once the suspects are identified.
The Indian grey wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) is an endangered subspecies native to dry and semi-arid regions of South Asia. Slightly smaller and more elusive than its European relatives, the animal rarely enters human settlements unless its habitat is disturbed or food sources run dry.
