AlUla is home to a diverse range of wildlife inhabiting its mountains, valleys, and nature reserves, forming an integral part of its ecosystem and natural heritage. World Animal Day, observed annually on October 04, highlights the importance of protecting and caring for animals, preserving their habitats, and recognizing their role in sustaining biodiversity and ecological balance.
Wildlife in AlUla includes mammals, birds, reptiles, and other species whose presence is closely linked to the region’s diverse natural environments. This reflects the relationship between living organisms and their habitats and the importance of preserving and sustaining this balance.
The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) works to protect wildlife through programs to rehabilitate natural habitats and reserves and reintroduce native species. Its release programs have included the Arabian oryx, Nubian ibex, Arabian sand gazelle, Idmi gazelle, and ostrich, taking habitat suitability and species sustainability into account.
AlUla Veterinary Clinic implements a program to manage stray animal populations using the internationally recognized Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) methodology, which involves trapping, neutering, vaccinating, and returning animals. The program contributes to curbing the growth of stray cat and dog populations and the spread of diseases. It also provides essential veterinary care services for pets belonging to AlUla residents.
These efforts reflect an integrated approach to animal care in AlUla that combines wildlife protection and the preservation of natural habitats with the care of domestic and stray animals, ecosystem rehabilitation, and biodiversity conservation. This contributes to the sustainability of natural resources and ecological balance while promoting animal welfare practices as part of the governorate’s sustainable development framework.
Source: Riyadh Daily
