TDIC and EAD move Oryx back to their natural habitat

Abu Dhabi, March 29, 2012 (WAM) - Tourism and Development '&' Investment Company (TDIC), master developer of Desert Islands and Qasr Al Sarab, and Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) have taken 15 female Arabian Oryx from EAD's breeding centre and moved them into an open enclosure in the Liwa Desert surrounding Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. A further 5 male Oryx will be moved to the enclosure in due course. The Oryx will remain there for a year before being released back into the wild. The translocation of these endangered animals is part of the government of Abu Dhabi's wider plan to release more native species from breeding centres back into their natural habitats. The Oryx are now located in a secure enclosure at the Qasr Al Sarab reserve boundary, where they will be monitored to ensure they become accustomed to their new environment and remain healthy in their new home. This announcement comes as a testimonial to TDIC's commitment whereby it enhances Abu Dhabi's tourism, cultural and recreational assets, while protecting the emirate's natural environment. The Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island is an example of the company's best practice in this area, and is home to a very healthy and well-established Arabian Oryx herd. The Conservation Team is working with the EAD to breed and eventually transfer more Oryx to repopulate the wild. The park is a sanctuary to over 10,000 native and non-native terrestrial mammals, some of which are endangered or extinct in the wild. The Oryx can be viewed by guests at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara while on a Desert Drive or Walk - activities that can be booked through the hotel. - Emirates News Agency, WAM