Today is the International Day of the Markhor!
On May 2, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring May 24 the International Day of the Markhor. The markhor is a species of wild goats native to the mountains of Central and South Asia, including Pakistan, where it is the national animal. Its majestic appearance is characterized by its stunning corkscrew horns, which can grow to over five feet in length. Sadly, there are less than 6,000 adult markhors in the world; they have fallen victim to illegal hunting and poaching, as well as loss of their habitat, and are classified as "near threatened". It is hoped that the International Day of the Markhor will bring awareness of these amazing creatures and help preservation efforts.
