LAHORE:
A female sambar deer that had strayed into the Narowal border region was rescued, treated for minor injuries, and released back into its natural habitat.
A day earlier, residents of the border village of Karpaal had spotted the animal after it reportedly crossed over from India and became disoriented. They managed to restrain the deer and informed the wildlife authorities.
According to officials, Assistant Chief Wildlife Ranger Narowal, Muhammad Taimoor, immediately dispatched a rescue team. With the support of Punjab Rangers and local police, the deer was safely recovered.
Wildlife staff noted that the animal had sustained minor injuries due to continuous running and contact with thick vegetation. After initial medical treatment, the deer was released into its natural environment, where it bounded away, offering what officials described as a striking and memorable sight.
Sambar deer are native to South Asia and Southeast Asia and typically inhabit dense forests close to water bodies. They are known for their strong swimming ability. Experts say that illegal hunting and habitat loss have placed the species under significant pressure. Cross-border movement of sambar deer from India into Pakistan is reported from time to time.
Chief Wildlife Ranger Mubeen Elahi stated that wildlife rescue operations will continue without interruption and that the safety of both personnel and wildlife will remain a priority during such missions.
