Migratory birds observed in the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve
Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve: A World Bird Station
The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve is a vital and strategic stop on global bird routes, with numerous migratory species passing through annually and others settling within its boundaries. This rich diversity reflects the importance of its natural habitats, which provide an ideal environment for wildlife. The results of a comprehensive field survey confirm this leading role, identifying 184 species of resident and migratory birds within its borders, revealing exceptional biodiversity that places the reserve on the map of global environmental interest.
A historical legacy in preserving Saudi nature
Historically, the Arabian Peninsula has served for millennia as a vital bridge connecting the continents of Asia, Europe, and Africa, making it a major migratory route for millions of birds annually. Reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's long-standing commitment to wildlife, the establishment of the Royal Reserves was a strategic step towards restoring the ecological balance disrupted by urbanization and overhunting in recent decades. These reserves represent an extension of this legacy, aiming to protect plant and animal life, reintroduce rare species, and serve as a model for sustainable environmental management.
Accurate statistics reflecting biodiversity
Official data from the reserve's management revealed promising figures reflecting the success of conservation efforts. It showed that 69% of the total birds observed were classified as migratory birds, using the reserve as a resting point during their long journeys. In contrast, resident breeding birds constituted 17% of the total, indicating favorable conditions for breeding and nest building. Winter visitors made up 7.1%, underscoring the reserve's crucial importance as a warm and safe wintering ground on international migration routes.
Protecting endangered species and its international impact
At both the regional and international levels, this biodiversity has a significant impact, contributing to the maintenance of global ecological balance. In this context, the survey revealed the presence of four globally threatened migratory bird species within the reserve's boundaries: the Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus), the steppe eagle (Aquila nipalensis), the European turtle dove (Streptopelia turtur), and the common redstart (Aquila communis). Protecting these species locally supports international efforts to prevent their extinction and strengthens the Kingdom's position as an active partner in international environmental agreements.
A safe haven that aligns with Vision 2030
These results underscore the vital environmental importance of the reserve as a safe haven for rare and endangered species, and a cornerstone of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s biodiversity conservation system. This achievement coincides with World Migratory Bird Day, celebrated this year under the theme “Every bird matters… your observations make all the difference.” It also serves as tangible evidence of the success achieved in the journey of preserving the natural environment, in line with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to conserve natural resources and protect ecological balance.
The reserve covers an area of 91,500 square kilometers and is located in the northeast of the Kingdom, extending across the administrative boundaries of several regions, including the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, Al-Qassim, Hail, and the Eastern Province. The reserve's geography is characterized by a unique topography that combines plains, valleys, and sand dunes, providing diverse and precise habitats that cater to the needs of various bird species and wildlife.
