Saudi Arabia discovers endangered vulture breeding colonies

RIYADH: On World Vulture Awareness Day, Saudi Arabia’s Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve Development Authority announced a rare discovery: three breeding colonies of endangered Eurasian Griffon vultures. These colonies were found within the reserve, marking a significant conservation achievement. Vultures play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by acting as nature’s clean-up crew, preventing disease outbreaks.

Andrew Zaloumis, CEO of the reserve, highlighted that the Griffon vulture is a rare breeding resident in Saudi Arabia. Reserve scientists, using drones, discovered four active nests with adult vultures incubating eggs and raising chicks. These breeding sites indicate the reserve’s success in improving environmental health and its role as a sanctuary for Saudi Arabia’s natural heritage.

The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve spans 24,500 km and is one of the most biodiverse areas in the Middle East, home to 15 distinct ecosystems and over 50 percent of the Kingdom’s species. The reserve’s new Integrated Development Management Plan ensures the highest level of protection for vulture breeding colonies.

While individual Griffon vultures have been seen roosting in the reserve’s mountains before, this is the first time breeding colonies have been confirmed. The nests were discovered in the sandstone mountains of the Jabel Qaraqir section of the reserve, with adults incubating eggs and chicks about two to three months old. Additionally, 37 potential nesting sites are being monitored to further support the conservation efforts.

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This discovery underscores the reserve’s commitment to protecting Saudi Arabia’s natural heritage and the vital role vultures play in the environment.