Saudi Nature Reserve Records 12 Rock Hyrax Births in Biodiversity Milestone

Saudi Arabia’s Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve recorded the birth of 12 rock hyraxes during the first quarter of 2026, highlighting the success of ongoing wildlife conservation and habitat restoration efforts across the protected area.

Officials overseeing the reserve said the births reflect the effectiveness of breeding and environmental protection programs designed to support wildlife sustainability and increase desert species populations within their natural habitats.

The rock hyrax births are part of a broader wave of wildlife reproduction inside the reserve, which documented more than 90 births of various wild species during the first months of 2026, including Arabian oryx, sand gazelles, Cape hares, and red-necked ostriches.

Authorities noted that the figures demonstrate the growing success of wildlife reintroduction and habitat management programs, with several species now reproducing naturally in the wild without depending on captive breeding systems.

The rock hyrax is a small herbivorous mammal that thrives in rocky and mountainous environments, relying on caves and rock crevices for shelter from predators and harsh desert conditions.

Despite its small size, the species is known for remarkable climbing ability and agility, supported by specialized foot structures that help it grip steep and smooth rock surfaces.

Environmental experts consider the rock hyrax an important component of desert ecosystems because of its role in maintaining vegetation balance and supporting the broader food chain.

Established in 2018, the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve spans more than 104,000 square kilometers across parts of Al-Jouf, Qassim, Hail, and the Northern Borders region.

The reserve features diverse landscapes, including sand dunes, valleys, basalt plateaus, and seasonal plains, making it one of the Kingdom’s richest biodiversity areas.

In recent years, the reserve has expanded restoration programs through native tree planting, rangeland rehabilitation, anti-poaching patrols, and wildlife monitoring initiatives supported by scientific surveys and aerial observation.

The reserve is also home to several important wildlife species, including Arabian oryx, caracals, and migratory birds, as part of the Kingdom’s broader environmental strategy to protect biodiversity and restore natural habitats for future generations.