100 Arabian Oryx released into the wild
abu dhabi — A new group of 100 Arabian Oryx was recently released into the Houbara Protected Area. Today, a total of 800 are now roaming freely at the reserve, the Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi (EAD) has said.
They were the first batch of Arabian Oryx that were set to be freed in stages before the end of the year. The reintroduction programme is being led by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Board of Directors of EAD, in coordination with Al Dhafra Region Municipality.
“The emirate is committed to preserving wildlife and endangered species, and the release of these majestic animals into the wild is a moment of pride for us. This emphasises our efforts to reintroduce the Arabian Oryx, a project that was launched in Al Ain City back in 1968,” Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed said.
The initiative is part of the Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Arabian Oryx Reintroduction Programme, aimed at bringing the Arabian Oryx back to their natural habitat, within large reserves. In the past, the formation of growing herds that are self-reliant — roaming freely in their habitat — have been found effective in saving species.
Dr. Sheikha Salem Al Dhaheri, secretary-general of EAD, said: “Today, the programme is considered one of the most successful species preservation programmes in the world. It has increased the numbers in the UAE, with the country hosting over 10,000 Arabian Oryx.”