GB auctions hunting permits for 117 animals

Gilgit-Baltistan's Wildlife and Parks Department recently conducted an auction for 117 hunting permits for the 2026-27 trophy season. The most sought-after permit, for an Astore markhor, fetched $356,000. The second-highest permit for another Astore markhor was sold for $301,000, while the third highest was $294,000. One permit from the previous season was also up for grabs.

The event took place at the Forest, Parks and Wildlife Complex in Gilgit, where numerous outfitters and hunters gathered. Wildlife officials anticipate earning Rs650 million from this season, which runs from October 15, 2026, to April 10, 2027. The auction included permits for three Astore markhors, 14 blue sheep, and 100 Himalayan ibexes.

The Chief Conservator of Parks and Wildlife, Zakir Hussain, revealed that the most valuable exportable permit for a blue sheep went for $31,200, while the lowest bid was $25,100. The highest exportable permit for a Himalayan ibex in the prime category was sold for $13,200, with the lowest bid at $11,500.