8 conservation programs underway at Saudi wildlife center

Eight breeding and conservation programs are underway at a Saudi wildlife center dedicated to preserving endangered species.

Houbara bustards, Arabian oryxes, North African ostriches, mountain gazelles and goats, lynxes, and hares are among the animals being reared at the Prince Saud Al-Faisal Center for Wildlife Research in Taif.

Located 36 km from the city and 1,400 meters above sea level, the fenced nature reserve is spread over 35 square kilometers of semi-desert dominated by acacia senegal trees and wild grasses.

Researchers at the center monitor the breeding of species in their natural environments, and study ecosystems, while also working to raise public awareness about environmental issues.

Acacia tortillis and mimosa are among several species of tree found in the reserve which provide shade and food for some of the animals.