In a major conservation success, Pakistan’s wildlife authorities have successfully rehabilitated and released an injured common leopard, named “Terry,” back into its natural habitat, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to protect its rich biodiversity.
According to the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) under the Ministry of Climate Change, the leopard was released into the wild on Saturday, May 2 after completing 27 days of intensive treatment, monitoring and rehabilitation.
The mission began on April 5, 2026, when the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Wildlife Department rescued the injured leopard from the wild. Recognizing the need for specialized medical care, the animal was transferred to the IWMB rescue and rehabilitation centre in Islamabad (former Margazar Zoo), where veterinary experts provided round-the-clock treatment and recovery support.
Following a complete medical recovery and a detailed fitness assessment, wildlife experts declared Terry fit for survival in the wild, paving the way for his successful release.
The operation was carried out under the strategic leadership of Ms. Aisha Humera Chaudhary, Chairperson of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board and Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Change, along with Chaudhary Muhammad Fareed, Secretary of the AJK Forests, Wildlife and Fisheries Department. Officials said their commitment to wildlife protection and ecosystem preservation played a key role in the mission’s success.
Speaking on the occasion, Aisha Chaudhary said the ultimate objective of wildlife conservation is to ensure that wild animals continue to thrive in their natural habitats. She reiterated IWMB’s commitment to minimizing captivity and discouraging harmful practices that threaten wildlife survival.
Secretary Fareed praised the joint teams for their professionalism and dedication, describing the operation as a model example of coordinated conservation action.
The rehabilitation effort involved veterinarians, wildlife experts, field officers and caretakers from both the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board and the AJK Wildlife Department.
Officials said Terry’s successful return to the wild reflects the growing institutional capacity of Pakistan’s wildlife agencies and demonstrates what can be achieved through inter-agency collaboration, scientific expertise and a shared commitment to conservation.
