Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The National Center for Wildlife (NCW), in collaboration with the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve Development Authority, has released 66 endangered species into the King Khalid Royal Reserve.

As part of the initiative, the NCW has reintroduced 40 Arabian Oryx, 10 addax, 6 Nubian Ibex, and 10 Houbara Bustards. This effort forms a key component of a breeding and reintroduction program aimed at enriching the reserve's biodiversity, restoring ecological balance, enhancing sustainability, and promoting eco-tourism.

Chief Executive Officer of NCW Dr. Mohammed Ali Qurban emphasized the significance of the initiative, describing it as a crucial step toward ensuring the sustainability of wildlife, preserving ecosystems, and conserving biodiversity. He stated that the NCW aspires to be a global leader in wildlife protection, with a focus on breeding endangered species and reintroducing them into their natural habitats in line with the highest international standards.

Dr. Qurban highlighted the center’s commitment to conducting comprehensive research on endangered species, monitoring biodiversity in protected areas through advanced technologies, and collecting data to better understand the opportunities and challenges facing wildlife.