In a move reflecting Saudi Arabia's commitment to protecting its marine environment and promoting biodiversity, the National Center for Wildlife Development 63 seabirds onto the Jeddah Corniche after completing rehabilitation and treatment programs to ensure their survival and reintegration into their natural habitat. This initiative is part of the Center's ongoing efforts to conserve coastal ecosystems and protect threatened or endangered wildlife.
Details of the absolute species and their ecological importance
The release included a diverse group of birds that play a vital role in the ecological balance. The list included 34 Greater Red-winged Gulls, 25 Lesser Red-winged Gulls, one Moorhen, one Heron, and two Barbary Storks. These species are an integral part of the Red Sea ecosystem, contributing to beach cleanliness and controlling populations of small marine organisms and insects, thus promoting the health of the coastal environment.
Rehabilitation according to the highest international standards
The release was not a mere coincidence, but rather the culmination of efforts by specialized medical and veterinary teams working to rehabilitate these birds. Wild animals found injured or stressed undergo meticulous treatment programs that include medical examinations, proper nutrition, and flight training to ensure they regain their physical fitness, hunting ability, and self-reliance before being released back into the wild, in accordance with internationally recognized best scientific practices.
Supporting the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030
The center's CEO, Dr. Mohammed Ali Qurban, explained that this initiative directly contributes to achieving the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and the National Environment Strategy. He pointed out that preserving biodiversity is not a luxury, but a necessity for the sustainability of natural resources and improving the quality of life. The Kingdom, through the "Green Saudi Arabia" initiative and various environmental programs, is working to raise public awareness of the importance of wildlife and its protection from extinction.
The importance of the Red Sea location for migratory birds
This release is of particular importance given the Kingdom's strategic geographic location; the Red Sea coast is one of the most important global bird migration routes, connecting the continents of the Old World (Europe, Asia, and Africa). Coastal areas such as Jeddah's Corniche are crucial resting and feeding grounds for these birds. Therefore, the efforts of the National Center for Wildlife Development in protecting these habitats and rehabilitating affected species contribute to fulfilling the Kingdom's international obligations under agreements related to the protection of migratory species and biodiversity.
The center continues to implement its strategic plans, which include monitoring biodiversity using modern technologies, propagating endangered species, and reintroducing them to nature reserves and suitable environments, to ensure a prosperous and sustainable environmental future for future generations.
