Dammam: The Saudi news agency reported that Aramco has found 10 sites in an area of 950 square kilometers for biodiversity conservation. These centers are located between Sheiba in the south to Ras Tankib in the north and Abu Ali in the east to Abahawar in the west. The region is home to a unique flora and fauna with more than 55 subspecies. Many of these are threatened with extinction or are displaced by human interference.
Local extinctions of Arabian wildebeest (Oryx), antelope (sand gazelle) and ostriches have been found due to hunting. Aramco has always been careful to take a stand against such natural destruction, as a result, Aramco established the Sheiba Wildlife Sanctuary in 2016 and succeeded in reviving locally extinct species of oryx, antelope and ostrich.
The project announced today is part of Aramco’s social responsibility. An approximately 637 square kilometer area of wildlife sanctuary has been fenced off and protected in the Rubu-ul-Khali habitat in the eastern region. It protects wildlife from threats such as irregular vehicle entry, cattle grazing, litter and poaching. It also protects many native flora.
39 of the 50 species in the Sheiba Wildlife Sanctuary fall into the protected category. 13 species are in danger of extinction and 10 are Arab endemic species. According to recent surveys on biodiversity, 11 species of native plants, 13 species of reptiles, 18 species of mammals, 176 species of birds and 169 migratory species have been found in this area. Organic matter spreads in the form of natural animal and bird waste. This would result in a more active water cycle and nourishment of the dry desert sands.
Less camel grazing has also aided the growth of flora and fauna in the region. Since its conservation, the presence of the golden eagle has recently been discovered for the first time, as well as a large number of lizards and rabbits. The second phase of the project should increase the number of species within the reserve and allow for the arrival of more animals. In 1972, there were only four Arabian Oryxes. The last wild ostrich was found on the Arabian Peninsula in 1939 and the deer population has dropped dramatically.
Today there are 130 Arabian oryxes, 120 Arabian deer and four red-necked ostriches. Aramco’s contribution to safeguarding the future of endangered species has contributed to this achievement. Aramco’s efforts to protect the environment and wildlife were also recognized. In 2019, Sheiba Wildlife Sanctuary was audited by an external team and received ISO 9001 certification.
