Arabian Oryx returned to Jordan for release in Wadi Rum

19/01/2009 20:44:49 Oryx release in Wadi Rum

January 2009. Twenty Arabian oryx will be released back into their natural habitat in Jordan in March. 8 males and 12 females will be released in Wadi Rum Protected Area, as part of the sponsorship agreement that was signed between the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), which chairs the Coordinating Committee for Conservation of Arabian Oryx, and Al Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority in April 2007.

Fifteen were transferred to Jordan last weekend and 5 more will follow shortly. The animals were transferred to Amman in a military aircraft, courtesy of the UAE Armed Forces, while Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort prepared the oryxes for release, by administering medical check ups and the necessary vaccinations.

The animals have been placed in enclosures where they will be held until March, which will allow them to adapt to the desert habitat. H.E Majid Al Mansouri, Secretary General of EAD, said that reintroducing the Arabian Oryx into its natural habitats in Jordan is part of the UAE's effort to conserve this species, which is not only endangered but is also an important part of the Arabian Peninsula's heritage.

Satellite tracking
Mr. Al Mansouri noted that the vision is to expand the numbers of oryx and allow them free movement throughout the area. He added that the released animals will be monitored by satellite to follow their movement and behavior to ensure the animals' safety.

More oryxes are expected to be released in the Jordan in the future.

The reintroduction process owes thanks to a pioneering initiative of H.H. Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces.