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Ayub National Park
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Ayub Overview

Ayub National Park, located near Rawalpindi, Pakistan, spans approximately 9.3 square miles (24 square kilometers). Named after Pakistan’s second president, Ayub Khan, the park serves as one of the largest green spaces in the region.

Its location near the bustling twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad makes it a popular recreational area for locals and tourists. The park offers a blend of natural landscapes and man-made attractions, providing a scenic retreat from urban life.

The terrain of Ayub National Park consists of rolling hills, grassy fields, and patches of dense vegetation. The park’s landscape is interspersed with artificial lakes, walking trails, and shaded picnic spots.

The area boasts a mixture of native and ornamental trees, including eucalyptus and acacia, which provide ample shade and contribute to the park’s lush scenery. A network of small water bodies enhances the biodiversity within the park, offering an ideal habitat for aquatic species and birds.

Ayub National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, with several bird species being a significant attraction for nature lovers. Birds such as parakeets, doves, kingfishers, and herons can be spotted in different areas of the park.

The presence of small mammals, such as jackals and porcupines, adds to the park’s ecological diversity. While larger predators are not commonly seen, the park’s management has ensured a safe and sustainable environment for the species that thrive within its boundaries.

One of the most popular features of Ayub National Park is its family-friendly attractions, including a zoo that houses a range of animals, from big cats to reptiles. The park also features an amusement area with rides, making it a favored destination for children.

The artificial lake provides opportunities for boating, while well-maintained gardens and walking trails attract joggers and fitness enthusiasts. The historic Army Museum, located nearby, further enhances the appeal of the park, offering educational insights into Pakistan’s military history.

Visitors engage with Ayub National Park in various ways, from leisurely strolls along its well-paved pathways to more active pursuits such as cycling and jogging. The park’s open spaces make it an excellent location for picnicking and outdoor gatherings.

Birdwatchers frequent the park’s quieter areas, particularly near water bodies, to observe the diverse avian species. Families often visit the zoo and amusement park, while others come to relax by the artificial lakes. The park also serves as a venue for local events and seasonal festivals, drawing large crowds during public holidays.

The park faces some conservation challenges, particularly related to urban encroachment and pollution. The increasing population in the surrounding cities puts pressure on the park’s resources, leading to concerns about waste management and environmental degradation.

However, park authorities have implemented measures to maintain cleanliness and protect its flora and fauna. Conservation efforts include regular maintenance of green spaces, controlled animal care in the zoo, and awareness campaigns to educate visitors about preserving the natural environment.

Through these initiatives, Ayub National Park continues to serve as an essential ecological and recreational asset for the region.

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Park Map
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Ayub National Park Highlights

Popular

The Ayub National Park, located in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, is one of the country’s most well-known urban national parks. Covering a vast area with a mix of forests, lakes, and grasslands, it provides an important refuge for wildlife within a heavily populated region. The park supports a variety of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and bird species. Below are some of the more popular species that inhabit Ayub National Park.

Indian Leopard (Panthera pardus fusca)
A rare but significant predator, the Indian leopard roams the park’s forests, hunting deer, wild boar, and small mammals.

Golden Jackal (Canis aureus)
An adaptable omnivore, the golden jackal hunts small mammals, birds, and carrion while also scavenging for food in the park’s grasslands.

Indian Crested Porcupine (Hystrix indica)
A nocturnal rodent with long, sharp quills, the Indian crested porcupine feeds on roots, fruits, and vegetation in the park’s wooded areas.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa cristatus)
A resilient species, the wild boar forages in the park’s grasslands and forests, searching for roots, fruits, and small invertebrates.

Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta)
A highly intelligent primate, the rhesus macaque is commonly seen in the park, feeding on fruits, seeds, and insects.

Indian Grey Mongoose (Herpestes edwardsii)
A fast and agile predator, the Indian grey mongoose hunts rodents, birds, and reptiles, including venomous snakes.

Bengal Monitor Lizard (Varanus bengalensis)
A large reptile found in the park’s dry areas, the Bengal monitor lizard preys on insects, small mammals, and bird eggs.

Indian Cobra (Naja naja)
A highly venomous snake, the Indian cobra is often seen in the park’s grasslands and woodlands, hunting rodents and amphibians.

Indian Bullfrog (Hoplobatrachus tigerinus)
A large amphibian, the Indian bullfrog thrives in the park’s wetlands, feeding on insects, small fish, and other frogs.

Indian Softshell Turtle (Nilssonia gangetica)
A freshwater turtle species found in the park’s lakes and ponds, the Indian softshell turtle feeds on fish, crustaceans, and aquatic plants.

Birds

The Ayub National Park is home to a wide variety of bird species, including raptors, waterbirds, and songbirds. Its diverse habitats provide excellent nesting and feeding grounds. Here are some of the most iconic bird species found in the park.

Black Kite (Milvus migrans)
A common raptor in the park, the black kite soars over open areas, scavenging for food and hunting small mammals and birds.

Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)
Often seen near water bodies and grazing animals, the cattle egret feeds on insects and small invertebrates.

Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus)
A striking and colorful bird, the Indian peafowl is commonly found in the park’s woodlands, where it feeds on seeds, fruits, and insects.

White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis)
A brilliantly colored kingfisher, the white-throated kingfisher is often spotted near the park’s water sources, hunting fish, amphibians, and insects.

Red-wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus)
A distinctive ground-nesting bird, the red-wattled lapwing is known for its loud calls and is often seen near lakes and wetlands.

Eurasian Hoopoe (Upupa epops)
A striking bird with a unique crown of feathers, the Eurasian hoopoe is frequently seen in the park, foraging for insects in grassy areas.

Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri)
A bright green parrot, the rose-ringed parakeet is commonly found in the park’s trees, feeding on fruits, seeds, and flowers.

Pied Bush Chat (Saxicola caprata)
A small and active songbird, the pied bush chat is often seen perching on shrubs and low branches, searching for insects.

Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis)
An adaptable and social bird, the common myna thrives in the park, feeding on insects, fruits, and scraps near human settlements.

Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus)
A fearless and agile bird, the black drongo is known for its aerial acrobatics and ability to chase away larger predators.

Ayub National Park remains one of Pakistan’s most ecologically significant urban parks, offering a sanctuary for wildlife while providing visitors with an opportunity to experience nature within the bustling city of Rawalpindi.

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