Massive Turnout Highlights International Fund For Houbara Conservation's Pavilion At ADIHEX

The International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC), linked with Erth Zayed Philanthropies, recently wrapped up its participation in the 22nd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX). This event took place from August 30 to September 7 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The Fund's pavilion attracted numerous visitors, including dignitaries and nature enthusiasts.

Visitors to the pavilion delved into the history of the Abu Dhabi Houbara Conservation Programme, initiated in 1977 by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This programme has evolved into a global model for biodiversity conservation and cultural heritage preservation. The pavilion also displayed quotes from Sheikh Zayed and President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, highlighting their vision for environmental sustainability.

For the first time, the exhibition introduced the Houbara Artificial Intelligence Platform. This platform provides extensive information about the houbara bird's nature and its ecological and cultural significance. Visitors also met Emirati female veterinary students from UAE University, known as Houbara Ambassadors. These students shared insights on their training at IFHC’s breeding centres, aimed at preparing future wildlife conservation leaders.

At ADIHEX, IFHC announced a significant milestone: producing 107,808 Asian and North African houbara this year alone. Since its inception, the programme has produced 996,064 birds, releasing 598,314 into the wild across 18 countries to support ecological balance. There was also a noted increase in Asian houbara survival rates.

The Fund's pavilion highlighted international efforts to save two critically endangered species: the Arabian houbara and the Great Indian Bustard. While UAE centres breed Arabian houbara, Indian partners have received support to establish an advanced captive-breeding centre for the Great Indian Bustard. This centre is expected to become operational in upcoming years.

Visitors had a chance to observe live houbara birds within an enclosure mimicking their natural habitat. Additionally, falconers shared positive observations regarding the recovery of migratory paths from Central Asia to the UAE and Arabian Peninsula.

The IFHC continues its mission of engaging communities and future generations in fostering harmony between humans and nature. Through initiatives like these at ADIHEX, they aim to inspire more people towards sustainable environmental practices.

With inputs from WAM