ABU DHABI: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), along with Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, has successfully rehabilitated and released 10 greater flamingos at Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. These flamingos were rescued after a severe hailstorm, caused by February’s Al-Mizr low pressure, which heavily impacted the reserve.
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Ahmed Al Hashemi, Executive Director of EAD’s Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector, explained that their rangers were closely monitoring the flamingo population during the storm. When it became clear that the hailstones had injured many birds, EAD quickly activated an emergency response. Four teams were dispatched to rescue the injured birds and transport them to Yas SeaWorld for rehabilitation.
In addition to the 10 rescued flamingos, seven newly hatched chicks and four eggs were also taken to the Center for care. The storm’s impact on the birds was severe, and injuries were found to be caused by the large hailstones.
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Al Hashemi noted that such extreme weather is rare in the UAE and globally, but it highlights the readiness of EAD and its partners to respond swiftly to wildlife crises. He praised the partnership with Yas SeaWorld, which played a vital role in saving the flamingos and ensuring their safe return to the wild.
Robert Yordi, General Curator of Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, said that their team worked tirelessly to care for the rescued flamingos. This collaboration aligns with their broader mission to conserve and protect wildlife in the region.
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Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, managed by EAD, is the only site in the Arabian Peninsula where greater flamingos breed regularly. Despite the losses from the storm, it is expected that the flamingos will recover during the upcoming breeding seasons.
