Some research has been done on wildlife in the Northern Areas and therefore some data is available on various species. However, the following gaps in wildlife data have been identified:

Status of species
The status of many wildlife species, especially those hunted, is not clear and regular monitoring on a wide scale is required to establish this status. This is important for long term wildlife management and the future of trophy hunting in Northern Areas.

Occurrence of species
The occurrence of certain species such as the wild dog, Tibetan wild ass and golden marmot is still a matter of debate. Reports say that these species occur in the Shimshal Pamirs, and some earlier accounts have indicated that these species cross from China into Pakistan occasionally but recent sightings are not confirmed. Additionally, Blumstein (1995) gives detailed sightings on red fox and golden marmots but there is no independent confirmation. Therefore detailed surveys are necessary to establish the occurrence of all these species in Northern Areas.

Livestock and wildlife
Heavy livestock grazing in many areas is driving wildlife away from its natural habitat. Data should be generated in this regard to show how prevalent the problem is, where the wildlife is going and what can be done to mitigate the situation.

Avi-fauna
Although many species of birds are known for the Northern Areas, detailed information on their ecology, distribution and status is lacking. Such information is necessary for the preservation of avian biodiversity in the region.

Herpetofauna
The reptiles and amphibian biodiversity is largely undescribed and the few efforts made thus far have been concentrated in protected areas. Surveys to inventory this biodiversity and describe its status, ecology and distribution need to be conducted.

Insects
Very little research has been done to describe insect biodiversity in Northern Areas. Some efforts have been initiated but this is only the beginning. A lot of work needs to be done in this arena before a comprehensive regional picture of insects emerges.