61 wildlife species released into King Khalid Reserve to promote biodiversity
In a strategic move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to protecting its natural environment and restoring ecological balance, the National Center for Wildlife Development, in close collaboration with the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve Development Authority, announced the release of 61 rare and endangered wildlife species throughout the King Khalid Royal Reserve. This significant event is part of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to achieve the goals of Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative, which aim to enrich biodiversity and enhance the sustainability of ecosystems.
Details of the absolute organisms and their ecological importance
The release included a carefully selected group of wildlife that represent an integral part of the Arabian Peninsula's natural heritage. The list included:
- 10 Arabian oryx (Al-Wadhihi): This animal represents a symbol of the success of breeding and reintroduction programs in the Kingdom after it was critically threatened with extinction.
- 34 Arabian oryx: known for their beauty and speed, and which are a key component of the desert food chain.
- 7 of the eddy antelopes: which are characterized by their high ability to adapt to mountainous and rugged environments.
- 10 wild rabbits: to promote diversity at the base of the food pyramid within the reserve.
This step aims to enable these organisms to play their natural role in their native environment, which directly contributes to the restoration of degraded ecosystems and the improvement of vegetation quality.
Strategic context: Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative
This release is not an isolated event, but rather part of a comprehensive national strategy. Since the launch of the Saudi Green Initiative, the Kingdom has intensified its efforts to increase the percentage of protected areas to 30% of its total land area. Royal reserves play a pivotal role in this context, having become natural incubators that contribute to preserving natural resources for future generations. The breeding and reintroduction programs implemented by the National Center for Wildlife Development are a cornerstone for ensuring the survival of these unique species that have inhabited the Arabian Peninsula for thousands of years.
Applying the highest international standards in monitoring and follow-up
Dr. Mohammed Ali Qurban, CEO of the National Center for Wildlife Development, affirmed that the release operations adhere to the strictest international scientific standards. The mission doesn't end with the release of the animals; rather, a new phase of monitoring and tracking begins, utilizing advanced technologies such as tracking collars and satellites. This monitoring aims to gather precise data on the animals' behavior, range of movement, and adaptation to the wild environment, thus providing a scientific database that will contribute to improving future environmental management plans.
King Khalid Reserve: A destination for ecotourism and heritage
The King Khalid Royal Reserve holds particular significance due to its strategic location near the capital, Riyadh, and its expansive area of over 1,162 square kilometers. The reserve boasts diverse terrain, encompassing plateaus, valleys, and dense vegetation, as well as archaeological sites and historical inscriptions dating back to various eras. Releasing these creatures further enhances the reserve's appeal as a leading ecotourism destination, offering visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitats and raising public awareness about the importance of environmental conservation.
The cooperation between the center and the authority embodies a model of successful institutional integration, as Dr. Talal bin Abdullah Al-Huraiki, CEO of the Reserve Development Authority, pointed out that unifying efforts and expertise is the best way to ensure the sustainability of these programs and achieve the desired environmental balance, which will positively impact the quality of life in the Kingdom.
