Conservation Action in Saudi Arabia (2022) PDF

Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences 29 (2022) 3466–3472 Contents lists available at ScienceDirect Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences...

Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences 29 (2022) 3466–3472 Contents lists available at ScienceDirect Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences journal homepage: www.sciencedirect.com Review Conservation action in Saudi Arabia: Challenges and opportunities Abdulaziz S. Alatawi Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk City, Saudi Arabia a r t i c l e i n f o a b s t r a c t Article history: The conservation of biological diversity is gaining an increasing amount of global attention. In particular, Received 8 December 2021 in Saudi Arabia, conservation actions have become a topic of focus, with many successful initiatives being Revised 28 December 2021 implemented. Despite these efforts, several wild animal species in Saudi Arabia still require special atten- Accepted 20 February 2022 tion to ensure their long-term conservation and survival. If not effectively controlled, certain challenges Available online 25 February 2022 could threaten the conservation status of local wildlife. Various conservation strategies are employed in Saudi Arabia to control these challenges, minimize their influence, and promote conservation action. Such Keywords: strategies have proven to be effective; however, further efforts are still required, particularly outside pro- Habitat loss Hunting tected areas. The conservation of species in critical situations primarily depends on the creation of pro- Saudi Arabia tected areas and human intervention. Wildlife conservation is a collaborative effort; every individual has Protected areas a role to play in protecting wild animals in each unique ecosystem to ensure their survival and the sus- Public awareness tainability of their habitats for future generations. Wild animals Ó 2022 The Author. Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of King Saud University. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Contents 1. Introduction........................................................................................................ 3466 2. Poaching and hunting................................................................................................ 3467 3. Habitat loss and overgrazing........................................................................................... 3468 4. Public awareness.................................................................................................... 3468 5. Protected areas...................................................................................................... 3470 6. Law enforcement and legislation....................................................................................... 3470 7. Education and research............................................................................................... 3471 8. Discussion.......................................................................................................... 3471 Declaration of Competing Interest...................................................................................... 3471 Acknowledgements.................................................................................................. 3471 Funding........................................................................................................... 3471 References......................................................................................................... 3471 1. Introduction declining for several reasons (Butchart et al., 2010), resulting in an unprecedented, increased rate of extinction (Ceballos et al., Biodiversity conservation is crucial to ensure the sustainability 2015). This increase is primarily due to human activities of natural resources (Rands et al., 2010). However, biodiversity is (Ceballos et al., 2015). As a result, biological diversity conservation has gained considerable global attention, with international meet- ings such as the Convention on Biological Diversity helping to raise Peer review under responsibility of King Saud University. awareness and propose solutions. In one such meeting, various conservation targets were proposed. One target was to increase the coverage of terrestrial and marine protected areas worldwide to ensure the adequate protection of biological diversity (UNEP, Production and hosting by Elsevier 2010). A recent report has shown that most of the targets proposed E-mail address: [email protected] in that meeting have only been partially achieved or not achieved https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2022.02.031 1319-562X/Ó 2022 The Author. Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of King Saud University. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). A.S. Alatawi Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences 29 (2022) 3466–3472 at all (SCBD, 2020). However, a noticeable expansion in the size extinction of multiple species and significantly reduces population and number of protected areas has been observed (UNEP-WCMC numbers to critically low points (Giangaspero and Al Ghafri, 2014; et al., 2018). This will significantly maximize conservation efforts AlKharusi et al., 2017). For instance, poaching is a major driver of and bolster investments for the protection of wild animals, partic- population decline among African savanna elephants (Loxodonta ularly in critical areas (Kaky, 2020). africana; Gobush et al., 2021) and white rhinos (Ceratotherium Saudi Arabia is a large country with an approximate area of simum; Emslie, 2020). Saudi Arabia does not escape the negative 2,149,690 km2 (Vincent, 2008). It has diverse flora, fauna, climatic impacts of poaching on conservation efforts. Several wild native conditions, and topographic characteristics (Abuzinada et al., 2004; species face significant population decline due to poaching and Anashwan, 2017). The climate is mostly arid, with hot weather overhunting activities, ultimately affecting their conservation sta- resulting from limited annual rainfall; however, several locations tus. For instance, the Arabian oryx was previously pronounced receive a higher rainfall rate (Gosling et al., 2011). Geographical extinct in the wild, primarily due to overhunting (Henderson, characteristics are distinguished and varied across Saudi Arabia 1974). Despite no longer being classified as extinct in the wild, (Vincent, 2008; Anashwan, 2017). This geographical variation and poaching remains a major challenge for the survival of Arabian the location of Saudi Arabia between Eurasia and Africa influence oryx (IUCN SSC Antelope Specialist Group, 2017a). Notably, several the diversity of its flora and fauna (Abuzinada et al., 2004; Al native ungulate species in Saudi Arabia remain under pressure Midfa et al., 2011). Its location also means it is an important route (Barichievy et al., 2018). For instance, the populations of Nubian for migratory birds in the region (Abuzinada et al., 2004; Czudek, ibex (Capra nubiana) and Arabian sand gazelle have dramatically 2006; Al Midfa et al., 2011; Alyousefi, 2020). There is significant declined in their native habitats, primarily due to overhunting biological diversity in Saudi Arabia; 79 terrestrial mammals and (IUCN SSC Antelope Specialist Group, 2017b; Ross et al., 2020). 432 birds have been recorded (Abuzinada et al., 2004). Regarding Poaching is considered one of the main drivers of population herpetofauna, 128 species and subspecies of terrestrial, marine, decline and poses a serious threat to the survival of other wild ani- and freshwater animals have been described in Saudi Arabia mals in Saudi Arabia, such as particular carnivores (Mallon and (Aloufi et al., 2019). Budd, 2011). The practice of hunting and killing Arabian leopards Wildlife conservation and the sustainability of natural habitats (Panthera pardus nimr) within Saudi Arabia threatens their exis- are important topics in Saudi Arabia due to the typically limited tence in the wild. As a result, these leopards have a critically availability of resources in arid habitats. Maintaining a healthy endangered conservation status (Al-Johany, 2007; Islam et al., and biologically diverse ecosystem is crucial in such an environ- 2018). Additionally, the population of striped hyaena (Hyaena ment; the destruction of natural resources can have catastrophic hyaena) is sharply declining in its known range, which includes effects. For instance, the destruction of a juniper forest can Saudi Arabia, due to hunting (Mallon and Budd, 2011). adversely affect the Asir magpie (Pica asirensis) population in Saudi The avian community is also affected by overhunting practices, Arabia (BirdLife International, 2017). By joining the Convention on which negatively impact their conservation status. There are many Biological Diversity, Saudi Arabia ensures the protection of its bio- cases in which birds are illegally hunted in Saudi Arabia and sur- logical diversity (Abuzinada et al., 2004). Since joining the Conven- rounding regions (Brochet et al., 2019), which may lead to a future tion, Saudi Arabia has shown remarkable commitment and conservation issue if not properly controlled. For instance, the hou- considerable progress in conserving its biological diversity and bara bustard (Chlamydotis macqueenii) is a game species in Saudi overcoming conservation challenges. Local agencies and authori- Arabia that has been subjected to extensive hunting. As a result, ties have engaged in substantial efforts to conserve vulnerable spe- this species has been extirpated from most of its natural range cies and restore or maintain populations of species, such as the (Alwelaie, 1994; Seddon et al., 1995). Another clear demonstration Arabian gazelle (Gazella arabica), Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx), of the catastrophic effect of excessive poaching on populations and Arabian sand gazelle (Gazella marica) (Barichievy et al., (and hence their conservation status) is the Egyptian spiny-tailed 2018). Overall, a significant amount of research has been under- lizard (Uromastyx aegyptia). The overexploitation of this species taken to understand the ecology and biology of local species to primarily occurs for food and trade, which has resulted in its con- ensure appropriate conservation measures are taken (Wilms servation classification as a vulnerable species (Wilms et al., 2012). et al., 2011; Alatawi et al., 2020; AlRashidi et al., 2021). Overhunting might influence the diet of local wildlife. The rarity Compared to other countries, conservation action in Saudi Ara- of some prey species—such as the Nubian ibex and gazelles in bia is relatively new (Barichievy et al., 2018). Due to the harsh Saudi Arabia (Al-Johany, 2007; Islam et al., 2018)—due to over- desert conditions and other challenges, conservation efforts can hunting has forced the Arabian leopard to begin attacking livestock be difficult (Barichievy et al., 2018). With Saudi Arabia becoming in search of an alternative food source (Islam et al., 2018). Such significantly more socially developed and urbanized, wild animals behavior likely indicates that this species may change its foraging and other biodiversity components have been subjected to overex- habits and roam further to meet its diet requirements, which may ploitation. Recently, conservation in Saudi Arabia has gained increase human-wildlife conflict. Additionally, Mallon and Budd increasing attention, with a new conservation plan aiming to cover (2011) have listed the loss of prey species as a threat to certain car- several vast ecological and biological regions (Al-Saadon and Saudi nivores in the Arabian Peninsula region. Hunting has greatly Wildlife Authority, 2012). However, several challenges may impact increased over the last few years, in part due to the ease of access effective conservation action. Therefore, it is vital for Saudi Arabia to previously isolated areas (e.g., via 4x4 vehicles) and the develop- to consider all possible scenarios to control these challenges and ment of new hunting techniques (Barichievy et al., 2018). As a create effective solutions. Here, I briefly review some of these chal- result, a species may change its geographical distribution and habi- lenges along with strategies and efforts to further promote conser- tat requirements to cope with this anthropogenic pressure vation and discuss how they affect the conservation of local wild (Alatawi et al., 2020). animals. The poaching and hunting of wild animals primarily occur due to the high demand for their skin, meat, and bones for trade, sports, and their medicinal value. For instance, the flesh of the Indian 2. Poaching and hunting crested porcupine (Hystrix indica) is used as a traditional medicine in Saudi Arabia (Aloufi and Eid, 2016). In some situations, hunting Poaching is considered one of the main threats to the existence occurs to protect livestock from predation (Fig. 1a, b). Poaching and of wild animals. Excessive illegal hunting is responsible for the its negative effects on conservation actions and species survival 3467 A.S. Alatawi Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences 29 (2022) 3466–3472 Fig. 1. Wolves were hunted in Tabuk Province based on the locally held belief that they were responsible for attacks on livestock. cannot be ignored, particularly when hunting is part of traditional species are also adversely impacted by the urbanization process cultural practices related to food, income, and sports in a local and development expansion (Mallon and Budd, 2011). Such habitat community. Conservation investments are easily jeopardized, and degradation should be avoided or, if unavoidable, appropriately illegal overhunting can quickly negate prior conservation efforts planned, particularly in sites that are identified as biodiversity hot- (Barichievy et al., 2018). spots (Mallon, 2011). Some of these identified hotspots in Saudi Arabia are known to be the home ranges of endangered or vulner- able species, such as the Arabian leopard and the Asir magpie. The 3. Habitat loss and overgrazing loss of natural habitats due to logging and other related activities is known to be a threat to the Asir magpie population (BirdLife Wild animals are threatened by the fragmentation and loss of International, 2017). The increase in tourism activities in these their natural habitats (Mallon and Budd, 2011), which subse- areas is also a threat to the Asir magpie (BirdLife International, quently impacts habitat suitability and the geographical distribu- 2017). It is estimated that there are approximately 135 or fewer tion of species (Alatawi et al., 2020; Kaky, 2020). A species will pairs of this species left in the wild (BirdLife International, 2017). normally inhabit a particular niche depending on its habitat type, These areas are ecologically and biologically important because foraging needs, and interactions with the surrounding environ- they contain species relatively new to science (e.g., Hemidactylus ment (Soberón and Peterson, 2005). Losing their natural habitat asirensis; Smid et al., 2017). can force a species to adjust their habitat requirements and, conse- Overgrazing can also lead to the loss of natural habitats (Fig. 2), quently, compete with other species for the same food sources. especially at the vegetation cover level. This can result in poor Therefore, ensuring the sustainability of natural habitats and habitat quality (Al-Rowaily et al., 2015) that may affect species resources should be a conservation priority, particularly outside dependent on it for foraging. This is one of the ongoing conserva- of protected areas. However, this can be challenging when dealing tion challenges in Saudi Arabia for wild species such as the Arabian with vulnerable habitats and critical species as the desert ecosys- sand gazelle, Arabian oryx, and Nubian ibex (AlKharusi et al., 2017; tem already has limited natural resources that are in high demand. IUCN SSC Antelope Specialist Group, 2017a, 2017b; Ross et al., Saudi Arabia is currently undergoing major construction and 2020). Overgrazing has also been cited as a conservation threat development projects at all levels (e.g., infrastructure, industry, to some carnivores as it degrades the natural habitats of their prey urbanization). These expansions should be well-planned to ensure species, which subsequently impacts the diets of carnivores they are free from human-wildlife conflict and sustain natural (Mallon and Budd, 2011). Overgrazing by livestock can be a source habitats as much as possible. In Saudi Arabia, certain incidents of competition (Ross et al., 2020) and can reduce habitat quality, have been reported to threaten local wildlife via the loss of their thereby limiting the possible release sites for wild animals (IUCN natural habitats, thereby affecting their conservation status. Cox SSC Antelope Specialist Group, 2017a). Consequently, vulnerable et al. (2012) indicated that habitat loss is one of the most signifi- wild animals may require human intervention to ensure their spe- cant threats to terrestrial reptiles in the Arabian Peninsula. Aloufi cies survival (AlKharusi et al., 2017). For instance, Abuzinada et al. (2019) also noted that the loss of natural habitat threatens (2003) indicated that the ibex population in the ibex reserve ben- reptilian communities in Saudi Arabia, as an increase in the pro- efited from the exclusion of camels from the core area. Aside from portion of cultivated areas and the desertification process could the influence of overgrazing on vegetation, it can also impact soil lead to a reduction of the suitable natural habitats for some rep- properties (Al-Rowaily et al., 2015). tiles. Another example of the consequences of habitat loss and degradation in favor of other activities (e.g., the construction of road networks and urbanization) has been seen in wild carnivores. 4. Public awareness It is believed that the establishment of road networks in isolated mountains areas may impact the Arabian leopard by increasing Public attitude toward and awareness of the surrounding envi- the accessibility for poaching, herding, and other human activities ronments cannot be overlooked as a major challenging factor fac- (Islam et al., 2018). In the Arabian Peninsula region, other carnivore ing effective conservation action. Humans play a significant role 3468 A.S. Alatawi Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences 29 (2022) 3466–3472 Fig. 2. Livestock grazing in the mountainous habitats of the Tabuk Province (Photo by Abdulaziz Alatawi). in their local ecosystems (Kaky and Gilbert, 2019; Alatawi et al., is a challenging task, especially if their activities supply a source 2020). Thus, an adequate level of conservation action cannot be of income, protection, or food. Public awareness can directly and achieved without the involvement of local communities (Koh and significantly threaten the existence of wild animals. For instance, Sodhi, 2010; Al Omari, 2011; Kideghesho et al., 2013). Therefore, there have been many cases in which the Arabian leopard species understanding local cultures and traditions will aid in maximizing has been poisoned or hunted in Saudi Arabia by local people (Al- conservation efforts. The need for increased public awareness and Johany, 2007; Islam et al., 2018). From a conservation perspective, involvement in Saudi Arabia has gained considerable focus. It has this is concerning, as this species faces a major survival threat in been a topic of discussion among local scientists (Al-Johany, the wild (Al-Johany, 2007). However, it should be noted that some 2007; Islam et al., 2018) and has been mentioned in national poisoning cases did not intentionally target Arabian leopards (Al- reports on biological diversity (Abuzinada et al., 2004; Fifth Johany, 2007; Islam et al., 2018). Common hunting behaviors noted National Report, 2014). Generally, convincing people to change among local hunters include hanging or displaying hunted species their behavior and attitudes toward the environment and wildlife in trees and hunting a large number of target species. Several Fig. 3. Leaving unwanted refuse can adversely impact wildlife and the environment (Photos by Abdulaziz Alatawi). 3469 A.S. Alatawi Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences 29 (2022) 3466–3472 published articles have shown images of carnivore carcasses being population of the houbara bustard has increased considerably displayed hanging in trees (Cunningham and Wronski, 2010; Islam due to its specific captivity breeding and reintroduction program et al., 2018), while other images show a large variety of hunted (Hemon et al., 2000; Abuzinada, 2003). Similarly, it was recently species, such as the Egyptian spiny-tailed lizard (Aloufi et al., reported that two Arabian leopard cubs were born in captivity at 2019). Notably, some of these species have vulnerable conserva- the Prince Saud Al Faisal Wildlife Research Centre in Taif (Royal tion status. One possible explanation for this behavior is hunters Commission for AlUla, 2021). The Royal Commission for AlUla showing off their success, which is a common practice among hun- has proposed a plan to increase the breeding program of Arabian ters in the Arabian region. leopards by establishing a new breeding center in AlUla County In some cases, the scenery of more accessible wild areas can be (Royal Commission for AlUla, 2021). unpleasant (Fig. 3a, b). Leaving or dumping unwanted refuse has A new strategy has been adopted in Saudi Arabia, covering var- an adverse impact on wildlife and the environment. Some species ious bioregions across the country and encompassing up to 10% of might consume the refuse, which could have negative health its total area (Al-Saadon and Saudi Wildlife Authority, 2012). Fur- impacts or even be fatal. This applies to both wild and domestic thermore, royal protected areas (i.e., royal reserves) have been cre- species. The public, which is not specialized in conservation, can ated across Saudi Arabia, such as the King Salman bin Abdulaziz benefit from orientations, workshops, fliers, and visits from experts reserve, which currently consists of three large, protected areas to increase their knowledge about the importance of the surround- (Al-Tokhais and Thapa, 2019). Additionally, a new royal protected ing wildlife, environments, ecosystems, and biodiversity—particu area, the Prince Mohammed bin Salman reserve, has been larly those who live in areas of possible human-wildlife conflict announced, with a total area of 16,000 km2 (Al-Tokhais and (i.e., near the habitats of endangered species or hotspots). Thapa, 2019). The expansion of natural reserves demonstrate the In Saudi Arabia, the National Center for Wildlife, as well as commitment and determination of Saudi Arabian national author- related authorities and institutions, have done substantial work ities to promote conservation efforts. and dedicated considerable effort to control several conservation challenges, reduce their negative impact on wildlife, and raise awareness in the local communities. Various measurements and 6. Law enforcement and legislation actions have been taken to effectively increase and promote the conservation of wildlife and the sustainability of natural habitats. Due to their belief in the importance of wildlife conservation Below are some of the efforts used to enhance conservation in and biodiversity, the relevant authorities in Saudi Arabia have cre- Saudi Arabia. ated various legislation and regulations to assist in their efforts (Abuzinada et al., 2004). The overarching goal is to conserve and sustain biological diversity and reduce or control any activities or 5. Protected areas challenges that may adversely affect local wild species. Protected areas typically have administrative staff, rangers, patrol officers, Establishing protected areas has proven ecological benefits for and occasionally, aerial surveillance technology to monitor the protecting wildlife. This is especially true for threatened taxa species and ensure wildlife regulations are upheld (Abuzinada, (Abuzinada, 2003; Barichievy et al., 2018), as species can securely 2003; National Center for Wildlife, 2021). Furthermore, a new force and freely forage in a protected and monitored environment. In called the Special Forces for Environmental Security (SFES) has 1986, The National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and been established to monitor the application, guidelines, and regu- Development was established. The commission primarily aims to lations regarding the protection of biodiversity and wildlife. The conserve biological diversity and restore threatened taxa through formal social media of SFES, namely its Twitter account, demon- establishing protected areas, which are chosen based on set criteria strates the significant efforts the force has made to promote con- (Abuzinada, 2003; Abuzinada et al., 2004). Currently, Saudi Arabia servation action by controlling illegal activities. For instance, has a substantial network of protected areas, covering different violations such as illegal hunting, logging, grazing in banned areas, regions (National Center for Wildlife, 2021) and encompassing and the sale of wild animals were all reported and prosecuted by nearly 4% of its total area (Abuzinada et al., 2004; Al-Saadon and SFES members (source; formal social media of SFES on Twitter, Saudi Wildlife Authority, 2012). Many recognized and successful accessed at 17–11-2021). The SFES is still a relatively new force conservation cases have resulted from conserving and restoring and has just begun its patrol activities in some provinces in Saudi endangered species, saving them from extinction (Abuzinada, Arabia. 2003; AlKharusi et al., 2017; Barichievy et al., 2018). The survival New executive regulations, including a maximum fine, have of certain wild animals, such as ungulate species, greatly depends been announced regarding the hunting and killing of a list of wild on protected areas (Barichievy et al., 2018). As previously men- animals, which will hopefully aid in controlling excessive poaching tioned, the Arabian oryx was declared extinct in the wild activities (Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, 2021). (Henderson, 1974). However, this species has now been success- The list covers different species with various conservation statuses fully restored, managed, and reintroduced into different protected that are primarily threatened by human-related activities. For areas in Saudi Arabia (Abuzinada et al., 2004; AlKharusi et al., instance, the hunting of Arabian oryx and striped hyaena can 2017; Barichievy et al., 2018). The number of Arabian oryx has now incur fines of 90,000 and 80,000 SR, respectively. Hunting increased, which has resulted in its conservation status being low- the endangered endemic Asir magpie is punishable by a 100,000 ered to vulnerable after being classed as endangered for many SR fine, while hunting any species belonging to the genus Uro- years (IUCN SSC Antelope Specialist Group, 2017a). Islam et al. mastyx is punishable by a 3,000 SR fine (Ministry of (2014) reported on the reintroduction of the Arabian gazelle into Environment, Water and Agriculture, 2021). Hunting of the Indian a fenced protected area known as Mahazat as-Sayd, where the crested porcupine is punishable by a 70,000 SR fine (Ministry of breeding of new individuals was observed. The establishment of Environment, Water and Agriculture, 2021). The fines aim to deter protected areas where livestock grazing is controlled or banned negative activities that present a challenge to conservation actions also benefits wild animals (Abuzinada, 2003). by directly or indirectly threatening the survival of species in the Previous success in conserving and restoring threatened wild wild. Additional legislation has also been promulgated to ensure species has been primarily achieved via captive breeding and rein- an adequate level of biological diversity conservation in Saudi Ara- troduction programs (Abuzinada et al., 2004). For instance, the bia, such as The Wildlife Protected Areas Act and The Wild Animals 3470 A.S. Alatawi Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences 29 (2022) 3466–3472 and Birds Hunting Act (Abuzinada et al., 2004). Notably, in addition conducting further systematic applied research in Saudi Arabia to a fine, violating some of these acts can lead to detention and formulating and adopting new techniques to satisfy both (Abuzinada et al., 2004). conservation authorities and local communities or stakeholders to minimize and control the impact of conservation challenges and avoid the loss of natural habitats and resources. Comprehen- 7. Education and research sive conservation action faces additional challenges not discussed in this review, including taxonomy, climate change, introduced Promoting education and awareness in local communities invasive species, environmental pollution, and continuous human regarding the importance of conserving wildlife should signifi- population growth. Investigation of these challenges is ongoing cantly help overcome conservation challenges (Al-Johany, 2007; (Wilms et al., 2011; Williams et al., 2012; Al-Obaid et al., 2017; Kideghesho et al., 2013; Islam et al., 2018). In this manner, tangible Smid et al., 2017; Alatawi et al., 2020). The window of opportu- conservation can be achieved (Koh and Sodhi, 2010). Local commu- nity for this type of research is open. This research will eventually nities should value the biological and ecological benefits of conser- help orient future conservation actions and mitigate negative vation, understand its importance (Barichievy et al., 2018), and impacts on species. Future studies and monitoring outside of pro- recognize the potential negative consequences of losing species tected areas and hotspot habitats should be considered to ensure and other components of biodiversity (Al-Johany, 2007). Education long-term conservation, particularly for endangered species living on the environment, biodiversity, and wildlife conservation is in harsh environments. being provided in schools and universities in Saudi Arabia. Further- No one can reasonably suggest that urbanization and related more, ecology courses containing information on various topics developments should not occur; however, a balance between related to ecology, biodiversity, the environment, and conservation human demands and wildlife must be considered. Therefore, it is are being taught to high school students. Another significant effort important to develop reliable conservation solutions that are based is known as Environment Week, an annual event organized by the on comprehensive research. The National Center for Wildlife and Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture that seeks to raise other relevant authorities have undertaken significant efforts, awareness among the community on the importance of biodiver- resulting in numerous successful initiatives for conserving wildlife sity, the environment, and conservation (Ministry of through various conservation measures and techniques, such as Environment, Water and Agriculture, 2021). For instance, the captive breeding, reintroduction programs, and awareness pro- Tabuk branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agricul- grams. The proposed expansion of protected areas demonstrates ture organized a scientific presentation on conserving the ecologi- the strong desire of local wildlife authorities to conserve biological cal system and halting biodiversity loss (Dr. Aishah Alatawi, diversity. personal communication). Local universities are also involved in Effective conservation actions face numerous challenges, and promoting conservation practices and awareness. For instance, there are significant efforts to halt them by certain groups. Conser- the University of Tabuk organized an international conference enti- vation of wildlife is a collaborative effort; all individuals are indi- tled ‘‘The Environment and Biodiversity of the Red Sea,” where rectly or directly involved in helping to support the protection of experts and invited speakers discussed topics related to biodiver- Saudi Arabia’s wildlife and their habitats in this unique ecosystem sity, threats, conservation, and sustainability in the region. More- to ensure their survival for future generations. over, special centers, such as the Prince Saud Al Faisal Wildlife Research Centre, have visited universities, schools, and other insti- Declaration of Competing Interest tutions to raise awareness about the Arabian leopard (Islam et al., 2018). The authors declare that they have no known competing finan- Courses and research opportunities on biodiversity and wildlife cial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared conservation are being offered to undergraduate and postgraduate to influence the work reported in this paper. students at local universities. The University of Tabuk offers a Mas- ter of Science degree majoring in biodiversity and a Higher Acknowledgements Diploma in Environmental Sciences, with a focus on either envi- ronmental sustainability or vegetation cover. Similar trends have The author would like to thank Dr. Emad Kaky for helpful com- been observed at other local universities. Currently, conservation ments on a previous version of the review. research covers various aspects across Saudi Arabia, such as the conservation of wild species with unique conservation situations, such as the Arabian leopard (Al-Johany, 2007; Islam et al., 2018), Funding Egyptian spiny-tailed lizard (Wilms et al., 2011; AlRashidi et al., 2021), and Asir magpie (Boland and Burwell, 2020). Notably, the Self-funding private sector is also involved in supporting conservation efforts and research innovation. For instance, Aramco, an oil company, References established the Shaybah Wildlife Sanctuary, which contains 120 Arabian sand gazelle, 130 Arabian oryx, and 4 red-necked ostriches Abuzinada, A., 2003. The role of protected areas in conserving biological diversity in (Aramco, 2021). Additionally, the Royal Commission for AlUla the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. J. Arid Environ. 54, 39–45. Abuzinada, A., Robinson, E.R., Nader, I., Al Wetaid, Y., et al., 2004. First Saudi Arabian announced The Global Fund for the Arabian Leopard, which focuses National Report on the Convention on Biological Diversity. The National on the conservation of this species (Royal Commission for AlUla, Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development, Riyadh. 2021). Alatawi, A.S., Gilbert, F., Reader, T., 2020. Modelling terrestrial reptile species richness, distributions and habitat suitability in Saudi Arabia. J. Arid Environ. 178, 104153. Al-Johany, A., 2007. Distribution and conservation of the Arabian Leopard Panthera 8. Discussion pardus nimr in Saudi Arabia. J. Arid Environ. 68, 20–30. AlKharusi, Y.H., AlZahlawi, N., AlDhaheri, S., Javed, S., 2017. What constitutes a wild Saudi Arabia is a unique country; new records of population population of Arabian Oryx?. 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