Thursday 16 / January / 2025
Muscat: Fifty-four Reem Gazelles have been released into the wild in Wilayat Muqshin, Dhofar Governorate, as part of a new resettlement project launched by Oman's Environment Authority. This 75 square kilometer project marks the first such initiative outside of established nature reserves. The gazelles will be monitored using GPS and satellite tracking devices.
The project, under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Marwan bin Turki Al Said, Governor of Dhofar, aims to enhance Oman's conservation efforts, rehabilitate natural environments, protect endangered species, and improve the country's global environmental ranking. It also promotes sustainable development and eco-tourism, according to Dr. Abdullah bin Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority.
This initiative builds upon previous successful resettlement programs, including the Arabian Oryx project in the Arabian Oryx Reserve (since the 1970s) and the Reem Gazelle breeding and resettlement program within the same reserve (since 2013). Similar releases of various antelope species have occurred in and around the reserve since 2020, resulting in observed population growth in the wild.
Eng. Suleiman bin Nasser Al Akhzami, Director General of Nature Conservation, explained that the project involved specialized national teams, advanced technology, comprehensive health checks for the gazelles, specialized transport, and temporary enclosures for acclimation. Satellite tracking collars and environmental patrols will ensure ongoing monitoring and protection.
The launch ceremony included a documentary on Oman's biodiversity, a presentation on the project, recognition of contributors, and an exhibition showcasing past breeding and resettlement successes.
The Reem Gazelle, an endangered species also known as the Sand Gazelle, is characterized by its agility, long neck, wide eyes, and light coloration. Field studies had previously indicated its extinction in the Rub' al Khali desert since 2007.
