Al Hefaiyah Centre Celebrates First Arabian Tahr Birth In Sharjah
The Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah (EPAA) recently celebrated a significant milestone with the announcement of the first birth of the Arabian Tahr at Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre. This event marks a pivotal moment in the conservation efforts for this species, particularly within the centre's newly expanded facilities, inaugurated at the start of March by H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.
This achievement underscores the success of the Arabian Tahr project, which is part of the centre's broader initiative aimed at preserving rare animals and birds, as well as species on the brink of extinction. The project aligns with EPAA's overarching vision and goals to bolster biodiversity conservation efforts. By creating an ideal natural habitat, the centre has not only facilitated the breeding of the Arabian Tahr but also transformed the Hajar mountains into a sanctuary for over 30 different types of mountain wildlife.
Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of EPAA, lauded the dedicated efforts of the team at Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre. Their work significantly contributes to Sharjah's environmental conservation strategies, reinforcing its commitment to biodiversity preservation on local, regional, and international scales. The initiative also supports Sharjah's environmental strategies concerning natural life and promotes the reproduction of endangered species.
The Arabian Tahr is known for its diurnal habits, living in small groups. These animals have a lifespan ranging from 8 to 16 years and weigh between 15 to 40 kilograms. They are typically found on rugged mountain slopes close to permanent water sources. The Tahr's diet consists mainly of water, grass, small shrubs, leaves, and wild fruits. They are also known to swim in ponds and partake in sand baths, highlighting their unique adaptation to their habitat.
This landmark birth at Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre not only represents a significant step forward in the conservation of the Arabian Tahr but also exemplifies Sharjah's ongoing commitment to environmental preservation. Through such initiatives, Sharjah continues to strengthen its position as a leader in biodiversity conservation, setting an example for conservation efforts worldwide.
With inputs from WAM
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