Ostriches Return to Saudi Nature Reserves

Wildlife authorities in the Kingdom have reported the reintroduction of red-necked ostriches to several Saudi nature reserves, marking the return of a species that had long been absent from the Arabian Peninsula. The effort spans multiple protected areas, including the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, the NEOM Nature Reserve, the Al-Disah Reserve, and the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve.

In December 2025, the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve reintroduced five critically endangered red-necked ostriches to establish a founder population. The move is designed to help the species regain a foothold in its native desert environment.

The programme has already shown early signs of success. In 2026, the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve reported seven red-necked ostrich chicks hatched during the second quarter. At the NEOM Nature Reserve, authorities said 27 chicks have been raised and have adapted to local desert conditions.

Why it matters

The red-necked ostrich is the largest living bird and once roamed the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula before disappearing from the region. Its return is a significant step in national efforts to restore native wildlife and strengthen biodiversity across the Kingdom's protected areas.

For residents and visitors interested in the country's natural heritage, the reintroduction reflects a broader commitment to conservation and the revival of ecosystems that once thrived in Saudi Arabia's vast deserts. As the founder populations grow and adapt, the reserves aim to build sustainable, self-supporting groups of ostriches for years to come.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving