Abu Dhabi's EAD Begins Reintroduction Of Critically Endangered Dama Gazelles In Chad

In a significant move for wildlife conservation, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has released six Dama Gazelles into the Ouadi Rimé – Ouadi Achim Wildlife Reserve (OROAWF) in Chad. This initiative is part of one of the largest mammal reintroduction programmes globally, aiming to increase the population of this critically endangered species.

The Dama Gazelle is classified as ‘Critically Endangered’ on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, with only about 100 individuals remaining in Chad and Niger. The species faces an extreme risk of extinction, prompting urgent conservation efforts to preserve and boost their numbers in the wild.

"The project began in 2019 with a captive breeding programme," said Ahmed Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD. "We captured five wild gazelles in the Manga region and other areas of Ouadi Rimé - Ouadi Achim in Chad and transported them to enclosures for breeding."

Monitoring and Tracking

The released gazelles come from two groups: one wild and the other captive-bred. Three animals were equipped with satellite tracking devices by a joint team from EAD, Sahara Conservation, the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, and the Zoological Society of London. This marks the first time captive-bred gazelles at OROAWF are being monitored using satellite collars.

"The post-release monitoring will provide detailed information about reproduction and mortality rates," Al Hashemi added. "It offers a unique opportunity to closely monitor wild Dama Gazelles and identify factors that limit their reproduction, supporting long-term conservation efforts."

Previous Successes in Reintroduction Programmes

The reintroduction of Dama Gazelles follows successful programmes for the Scimitar-horned Oryx (SHO) and Addax in Chad. These initiatives aim to establish healthy, self-sustainable herds within the 77,950-square kilometre protected area of Ouadi Rimé - Ouadi Achim reserve.

Launched in 2014, the first group of SHO was released into their natural habitat in 2016. The wild herd was monitored to ensure they adapted well to their new surroundings. Today, over 630 SHO thrive in the reserve, along with 160 healthy Addax.

The joint efforts with SHO reintroduction programme partners have improved the species’ conservation status. The SHO was reclassified as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN’s Red List after previously being listed as ‘Extinct in the Wild’.

Future Prospects

The ongoing monitoring and data collection from these reintroduction programmes will provide essential insights for future releases. This includes identifying effective tracking devices and establishing best practices for wild herd monitoring. Such efforts are crucial for ensuring the long-term survival and growth of these endangered species.

With inputs from WAM