Environment Authority launches gazelle rehabilitation project
Al Kamil W'al Wafi – Environment Authority (EA) has launched a project to rehabilitate and release Arabian gazelles into the wild, reinforcing its commitment to biodiversity conservation. The project was inaugurated at Al Saleel Natural Park in South Sharqiyah on Monday under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed al Buraiki, Wali of Al Kamil W'al Wafi.
Ten Arabian gazelles were released into the park, one of the largest natural habitats for the species in the region spread over 220sq km. The project is part of efforts to restore ecological balance in protected areas and support the localisation of native species.
Located 57km from Sur, Al Saleel Natural Park is known for its varied landscapes, including alluvial plains, acacia and gum trees, deep valleys and rugged hills. It is home to a wide range of wildlife – Arabian wolves, wild cats, red foxes, Egyptian eagles, and numerous bird and tortoise species. The park is home to about 7% of the global population of Arabian gazelles.
'This environmental project aims to conserve and sustain biodiversity by rehabilitating the Arabian gazelle in its natural environment,' said Saeed Nasser al Abdali, Director of Environment Department in South Sharqiyah. 'It also enhances Oman's standing in the Global Environmental Performance Index. Our country is home to over 15,000 species of terrestrial and marine flora and fauna, many of which are rare, endemic or of international significance.'
The Arabian gazelle rehabilitation and release project is a key part of the sultanate's wider strategy for ecosystem protection and sustainable wildlife management.
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