The survival and remarkable recovery of the pristine, white-coated Arabian oryx in the Arabian region stands as a testament to the effectiveness of dedicated conservation efforts. In 1972, this unique species, found exclusively in the Arabian Peninsula, faced the imminent threat of extinction in the wild. However, through a combination of concerted conservation actions and collaborative initiatives, the Arabian oryx has experienced a significant turnaround. Today, it holds the distinction of being reclassified as a vulnerable species by the IUCN, after being listed as Endangered. Furthermore, the Arabian oryx proudly represents the national animal of Jordan, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar.
Introducing the Arabian Oryx
The Arabian oryx is known for its extraordinary physical characteristics perfectly suited for desert survival. It possesses long, elegant horns, both in males and females, which can reach lengths of 2 to 4.9 feet (60 to 150 centimetres). These impressive horns are used for defence, territorial displays, and combat within their social hierarchy. Interestingly, when viewed from a certain angle, the positioning of the horns can create an illusion resembling a single horn, leading to the mythical association of the Arabian oryx with the unicorn. However, unlike the mythical unicorn, the oryx’s horns are separate and distinct.
The oryx’s coat is an almost luminous white, reflecting the sun’s rays and minimizing heat absorption. Its distinctive black markings add to its striking appearance in the desert landscape. The Arabian oryx possesses unique adaptations and intriguing behaviours. It has an exceptional ability to smell rain in the distance, allowing it to navigate to areas with water sources. Additionally, the oryx has a specialized circulatory system called a rete mirabile, which helps regulate body temperature. The rete mirabile is a network of blood vessels that acts as a heat exchange mechanism, allowing the oryx to cool its blood before it circulates back into the body.
What led to a decline in the Arabian Oryx?
Natural predators, including wolves, hyenas, and large felines, posed threats to the species, particularly targeting young and weakened individuals. However, it was human activities that emerged as the primary cause of their population decline. Habitat fragmentation resulting from settlements, infrastructure development, and fencing disrupted their movements and access to suitable foraging areas. Competition with domestic livestock further exacerbated the pressure on their limited resources. Additionally, prolonged droughts and variations in rainfall patterns challenged their survival in the arid environment.
Furthermore, overhunting and poaching played a significant role in the Arabian oryx’s decline, with the period of World War II potentially intensifying these activities. The increased availability of firearms and motor vehicles during this time may have facilitated hunting as a sport. The demand for their meat hides, and horns, combined with hunting sport, created a relentless pursuit of the species. Inadequate conservation measures and insufficient protection aggravated the situation, pushing the Arabian oryx to the brink of extinction in the wild.
Bringing back the Arabian Oryx
Dedicated organizations, zoos, and countries collaborated to save the Arabian oryx from extinction. One of the pioneering captive breeding programs, Operation Oryx, was established with the initial plan to establish a herd in Kenya, where another species of oryx thrived. However, due to an outbreak of hoof-and-mouth disease, the oryx intended for Kenya were redirected to the Phoenix Zoo instead.
The program began with four individuals captured near the border of Oman by an expedition led by Major Ian Grimwood, the chief game warden of Kenya. Furthermore, seven oryx were donated for the project. The Phoenix Zoo’s breeding program proved highly successful, resulting in numerous births. Many of the Arabian oryx found in the wild today are descendants of individuals from the Phoenix Zoo.
Reintroductions of the Arabian oryx started in 1982, primarily in Oman. Subsequent reintroductions took place in Saudi Arabia, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan. These programs involved releasing captive-bred oryx into the wild, gradually establishing self-sustaining populations. Each country made unique contributions to the conservation efforts, with ongoing monitoring and research programs ensuring the success of the reintroductions.
In Oman, the initial reintroduction took place in the Omani Central Desert and Coastal Hills in 1982, after the oryx had been kept in large outdoor pens. The released oryx became the core of the wild herd in Oman, with subsequent releases of captive-bred animals over the following decades. However, the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary in Oman faced challenges, including poaching and illegal live capture, resulting in a significant decline in population and its removal from the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Captive Breeding also proved successful
In Saudi Arabia, captive breeding efforts began in 1986, and additional oryx were introduced through births rather than captures. A “buffer generation” was introduced due to an outbreak of bovine tuberculosis, ensuring the third generation of oryx was tuberculosis-free and mother-reared. Reintroduction of a wild population began in the ‘Uruq Bani Ma’arid Protected Area and the Mahazat as-Sayd Protected Area, with varying population estimates on these reserves.
In Israel, a reintroduction program was established in 1978, initially with the purchase of four pairs of Arabian oryx. The population has grown since then, with ongoing releases to the wild. Israel’s poaching prohibition enforcement has contributed to the success of the program.
The United Arab Emirates initiated a captive-breeding program in the early 1960s, and since 2007, they have been releasing oryx into Umm Al Zumul. Efforts are underway to reintroduce the species to its natural habitats in Yemen and Iraq as well. The Emirate of Abu Dhabi hosts the Coordinating Committee for the Conservation of the Arabian Oryx, which oversees conservation efforts in the Arabian Peninsula. Jordan’s reintroduction project began in 2009, supported by the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi. The project involves releasing twenty oryx into the Wadi Rum Protected Area, rehabilitating the habitat, and improving resident’s living standards.
The Way Forward
The conservation journey of the Arabian oryx is a remarkable story of resilience and success. Once declared “Extinct in the Wild,” the species made a triumphant return, moving from the brink of extinction to the status of “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List. This marked a significant milestone, reflecting the progress made through dedicated conservation efforts, including captive breeding programs and reintroduction initiatives. Further advancements led to its reclassification as “Vulnerable” in 2011, demonstrating a remarkable recovery and inspiring hope for its future.
While the conservation of the Arabian oryx is a remarkable success story, ongoing challenges persist in ensuring their long-term survival. The case of Oman serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against poaching and the need for enhanced efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade. In the late 1990s, despite successfully reintroducing the Arabian oryx into the wild, Oman faced the risk of extinction for the second time in just 30 years. Poaching incidents intensified, leading to a significant decline in the oryx population. This situation highlights the importance of enforcing laws, monitoring illegal activities, and addressing the underlying causes to ensure the survival of endangered species.
Conclusion
The conservation of the Arabian oryx stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through dedicated efforts and international collaboration. The species’ remarkable recovery from the brink of extinction to a vulnerable status is a testament to the power of conservation initiatives. As we continue to protect and preserve the Arabian oryx, we pave the way for a future where endangered species can thrive and inspire generations to come.
Help us Help Them! Think Wildlife Foundation is a non profit organization with various conservation initiatives. Our most prominent campaign is our Caring for Pari intiative. Pari is a rehabilitated elephant at the Wildlife SoS Hospital. 25% of the profits from our store are donated to the elephant hospital for Pari. Other than buying our wonderful merchandise, you could donate directly to our Caring For Pari fundraiser.
Written by:Amalendu Sasikumar Nair