The marhur or screw-Horned goat (Capra falconeri). The name “marhur” is derived from the Persian words Mar – ” snake “and Hur — “eater” and is associated with the beliefs of the inhabitants of Tajikistan that the screw-horned goat deliberately searches for snakes and eats them. In addition, they believed that the meat of this animal is able to neutralize the effects of snake venom.
Marhur is found only in two scattered populations in the Kugitang mountains on the border between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan and in the Hazratishoh and Darvaz ranges along the Panj river on the border between Tajikistan and Afghanistan
The government of Tajikistan issues an annual hunting quota of up to seven goats per year. Since hunting quotas are low compared to the General population, there are many adult males with excellent trophies. Several world records have already been set since the government of Tajikistan opened a legal trophy goat hunt. The usual length of the horn is more than 100 cm. That is, only trophies obtained in protected areas and in accordance with science-based quota recommendations are eligible for import permits in accordance with CITES and national regulations!
HUNTING SEASON
The goat hunting season is determined By the decree Of the government of Tajikistan and lasts from September to the end of February. Early winter provides good opportunities due to the rutting season in December, while late winter provides favorable hunting conditions as the goats will concentrate in the lower parts of the mountains with the first green grasses and grasses. A ten-day trip, including eight days of hunting, is usually enough to achieve success. Shorter trips are available on request
HUNTING LOCATION
Areas where goat hunting is conducted in the Khatlon region and Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous region (GBAO).
THE PROCESS OF HUNTING
The process of hunting marhur-a complex and exciting mountain hunting depends largely on the physical condition of the hunter. Usually the goat is hunted at altitudes from 800 to 2000 m above sea level, and it is necessary to hike on steep mountain slopes with the support of experienced guides.
In good snow conditions, the goat remains at least in the morning and afternoon on the lower slopes. The firing range is 300m. Strong shoes, warm clothing, a warm sleeping bag and a comfortable backpack are required. Recommended shotguns with a bolt (without combined arms) caliber suitable for wide shots (for example, .300 WM).Rangefinders and binoculars are also recommended.
Four-wheel drive vehicles are used to search for animals. The hunt begins early in the morning and continues until dusk, and throughout the day, hunters survey the mountain slopes and feeding areas in search of sheep. After a male with horns of the desired size is spotted, the hunt continues on foot from the approach. This stage requires good physical training. Be prepared to shoot from a long distance, up to 400-500 meters. In the evening, the hunter returns to the base camp for rest.
ROUTE
Arrival city Dushanbe, from Dushanbe to the hunting camp you will be taken by car. You will need to get to the Khirmanjo village, in Shamsiddini Shohin district, Khatlon region, it will take about 4-5 hours. It is advisable to plan from 7 to 10 days
ACCOMMODATION
Hunt camp – Khatlon region, Sh.Shohin region (Khirmanjo)
