Srinagar, Dec. 13 -- Aadil Abdullah

In a rare and encouraging development for wildlife conservation, the critically threatened Himalayan Ibex, commonly known as the Markhor, has been sighted near Chak Nallah, a sensitive border area in the Gurez Valley of Bandipora district, officials said.

The sighting, described as unusual for this part of north Kashmir, has generated excitement among wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and locals. The Markhor is known for its distinctive spiral horns and remarkable ability to traverse steep and rocky mountain terrain, and is considered a key indicator of a stable and healthy high-altitude ecosystem.

Officials familiar with the area told that the presence of the endangered animal points towards i...