Al Ain Zoo launches Arabian Endangered Species Month

AL AIN-  As part of its commitment to the conservation of arid land species, Al Ain Zoo is set to launch Arabian Endangered Species Month from 1 to 30 May, 2014. Through a wide range of activities, visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the importance of breeding and conservation programmes that have been adopted by Al Ain Zoo.

Each week, zoo keepers will be leading a discussion that focuses on an endangered species, including the Arabian Sand Cat, Arabian Leopard, Arabian Oryx, and the Ghaf Tree. Other related initiatives include an endangered species tour and a “Create Your Own Mask” activity where guests will also be asked to create their own masks and contribute their pictures for a collage to be put on display around a fence specifically designed for this activity at the zoo. A fun and educational cartoon presentation about the Arabian Oryx conservation story will also be exhibited at the Parrot Tent, and visitors can also enjoy a screening of a children’s educational movie that was shot at Al Ain Zoo.

Muna al Dhaheri, Chief of Conservation and Education at Al Ain Zoo said,“Al Ain Zoo has long been committed to wildlife preservation and is part of numerous partnerships and programmes – both in the UAE and overseas – in this sphere, and our aim is to enlighten the public and encourage them to share this important commitment.Arabian Endangered Species Month will involve visitors in our cause by discovering our exciting animal exhibits in a fun and interactive way.”

Two additional activities will be held on 16 and 17 May in line with World Endangered Species Day, including a trail competition, where guests will be asked to follow a trail that leads to the most endangered species at the zoo, as well as a Ghaf tree planting. Furthermore, on 22 May, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a photo exhibition, aptly themed Biodiversity and Water, in celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity.

Al Ain Zoo is also home to international programmes and partnerships aimed at protecting critically endangered species through captive breeding, propagation, and the reintroduction of endangered species in to the wild, among others. The zoo has successfully introduced conservation and breeding programmes for a number of species over the past decades, including species of oryx, gazelle, the Arabian Leopard and the Houbara bustard.