The Fantastic Fauna of the Arabian Peninsula(Dubai)
Cooperation and
Conservation
The Arabian Oryx were once undisturbed nomads of the Arabian
Peninsula, harvesting both nutrients and water from various grasses, roots, and
tubers growing in the harsh desert conditions. These primary consumers were
extinct in the wild after a previously scarce population suffered a severe
decline because of increased hunting. This species survives today in growing
numbers because of the joint efforts by the countries of the Arabian Peninsula
and the U.S. The process of re-introducing them to their desert habitat
commenced in the 1960’s when a decline in population was predicted by Flora and
Fauna International. Wild Oryx were then captured and bred at a zoo in Arizona,
until being re-introduced into the U.A.E. (most recently), Oman, and Jordan.
While poachers are still a threat, and the population is nearly endangered, the
Arabian Oryx species is being conserved with international efforts, and shows
that with cooperation, anything is possible.
Facts about the
Arabian Oryx:
- They are classified under the same family as cows, and are bovines as well.
- Newborns are caramel in color, and blend in with the sand at their feet.
- Their hooves are especially adapted to walking on sand, with a shovel-like structure and large surface area.
- A pristine white coat deflects sun’s rays in the extremely high temperatures of the desert.
Another important
species of the UAE:
The Arabian Leopard:
This tertiary/secondary consumer is on the highest trophic level of the
desert ecosystem in parts of the Arabian Peninsula, and as a result needs to
consume more than any other organism. This is exactly the reason why they have
been hardly hit by human activities such as hunting and urban sprawl taking
place in the animals’ natural habitats. A decline in the populations of its
prey, (smaller mammals and mountain gazelle) lowers their population, and
throws off the balance of the ecosystem. This has forced the leopard species to
turn to herds of domestic animals tended to by shepherds, putting the Arabian
Leopard on bad terms with people, who are ready to kill any leopards that come
close to their herds. This species is very unique, being the smallest compared
to the Asian and African big cats, yet the largest in its area. Location is
extremely important to them, as they need to reside in the mountains, near
water deposits. The Arabian Leopard is listed as a critically endangered
species on the IUCN red list. The condition of this species is a perfect
example of what will happen in the future if hunting and destruction of natural
habitats continues.
How can I witness
the unique fauna of the Dubai area myself?
The Dubai zoo, located on Jumeirah road, is home to many
captive species that are endangered in the wild.Calm seas of the Gulf Coast are
perfect for whale and dolphin watching.If visiting the beautiful Dubai in
months between July and November or April and May, make sure to pay close
attention to the large-scale migration of many rare bird species that make a
stop to breed or simply relax on the Gulf shores.The newer Al Ain Zoo is always
expanding and improving animal facilities, check it out!
-By Sofia Lopez (zoologist)
-By Sofia Lopez (zoologist)