Al Ain Zoo marks World Migratory Bird Day

Imran Mojib, Special Correspondent

The Al Ain Zoo celebrated the International Day for Migratory Birds on Saturday.

It is an occasion to raise awareness about the importance of preserving environmental diversity and protecting migratory birds by understanding the threats they face and demonstrating their environmental importance. International cooperation is necessary for their survival.

Three years ago, the zoo started a new initiative to study biodiversity, which is important for natural species and conservation efforts.    

The zoo is working to study the migratory birds that are visiting the United Arab Emirates in large numbers as they are threatened by many factors. The records of migratory birds in the zoo confirm that the area is an attractive and incubating environment for them to breed and settle seasonally. So far, the number of birds recorded in the zoo has reached 100 species, 27% of which are resident. About 60% are migratory and 3% are immigrant and resident.

The zoo is keen to study the movement of migratory birds and observe their population on a monthly basis for the duration of their stay. The zoo compared their results to other studies in the field of bird migration. The zoo’s study shows that the high season for migratory birds is from March to September. Many species were recorded such as the white wagtail, wood sandpiper, and Temminck’s stint. Even the Kentish plover has taken up breeding ground in the zoo.

Hessa Al Qahtani, Unit Head of the Conservation Programme Development in Al Ain Zoo, said, “The Zoo provides an important environment and contributes significantly to preserving the environmental balance. Our studies showed that, over the past two years, the vast presence of vegetation and artificial lakes in the Al Ain Safari area was attractive to the birds. When they discovered this suitable environment, they chose to survive in it. The Al Ain Safari is a true simulation of the vegetation in Africa.”

She added, “Birds have a wonderful ability to cross countries and continents through their migration, which often requires long and perilous journeys. These migratory birds come here for the period between autumn and spring. Even when most of them return to Asia to spend the summer months there, a group of them will remain in this area year round.”