KARACHI: Images depicting a majestic snow leopard resting in a rescue facility in Naltar Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, a dolphin engaged in a series of spectacular jumps off the coast of Gwadar and an oriental white eye that seems to be hiding in a tree are all part of a two-day photography exhibition which op­en­ed at the Alliance Francaise on Friday.

More than 60 photographs are on display at the exhibition organised by the World Wide Fund for Nature-Pakistan (WWF-P). It features not only Pakistan’s wildlife and natural landscapes but also some outstanding wildlife photographs taken in countries like Kenya, Madagascar, Sweden, UK and the US.

It’s the first wildlife photography exhibition by the organisation in Karachi in recent years.

“Given the fact that some animals are migratory and there are many common in various regions, we thought it’s a good idea to include wildlife photographs from other countries as well,” Hamera Aisha representing the WWF-P explained, adding that some images were recent while others were captured a few years back.

The exhibition’s objective, she said, was to educate people on wildlife diversity, provide them with an opportunity to interact with WWF-P experts and raise funds for wildlife conservation.

“What this exhibition aims to achieve is to bring people closer to nature, create an understanding about nature conservation and disseminate information about the threats wildlife faces. It will help change public perception towards animals and environment,” she hoped.

The wildlife species of Pakistan whose pictures are on display included the country’s national animal markhor, brown bear, black francolin (kala teetar), a flock of geese, lesser crested tern, kingfisher, great egret, green turtles, mallard and teal.

Several photographs highlighting the beautiful landscapes in Shandur, Diamer (both part of Gilgit-Baltistan) and Astola Island located off Gwadar coast are also on display.

Published in Dawn, June 30th, 2018