Wildlife authorities release 63 seabirds in Jeddah to promote the environment
In a move reflecting Saudi Arabia's commitment to protecting its marine and coastal environment, the National Center for Wildlife Development released 63 seabirds onto Jeddah's Corniche after completing their rehabilitation and treatment to ensure their ability to live in their natural habitat. This initiative is part of the center's ongoing efforts to enhance biodiversity and the sustainability of the Kingdom's ecosystems.
Release details and reintroduced species
The release included a diverse group of birds that play a vital role in the ecological balance. The list included 34 Greater and 25 Lesser Gulls, as well as one Moorhen, one Heron, and two Barbary Storks. Jeddah Corniche was chosen as the release site because it lies within the natural distribution range of these creatures, facilitating their reintegration into their natural life cycle and enabling them to resume their ecological roles.
Rehabilitation according to scientific standards
Dr. Mohammed Ali Qurban, CEO of the National Center for Wildlife Development, confirmed that the release was not random, but rather the culmination of a meticulous rehabilitation program based on the best internationally recognized scientific practices. Through these programs, the center aims to ensure the health and viability of the wildlife before releasing it back into the wild, thereby increasing the success rate of releases and supporting the sustainability of wildlife.
National Strategy and Vision 2030
This initiative is of particular importance within the framework of the National Environment Strategy and the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places unprecedented emphasis on protecting the environment and natural resources. With its unique geographical location, Saudi Arabia is a vital migratory route for birds and a habitat for many rare wildlife species. The center's efforts contribute to fulfilling the Kingdom's international commitments related to biodiversity conservation and support the "Green Saudi Arabia" initiative, which aims to protect terrestrial and marine areas and reintroduce endangered animals.
The importance of ecological balance in coastal areas
Conserving seabirds and coastal birds is a cornerstone of healthy marine ecosystems. These birds help regulate populations of other organisms and serve as vital indicators of marine environmental health. Since its establishment, the National Center for Wildlife Development has been working on an integrated system encompassing monitoring, scientific research, breeding of threatened species, and rehabilitation of injured ones, to ensure a thriving and sustainable environment for future generations.
