Addax new success for breeding plan

The birth of an addax antelope at Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort (AWPR) is a feather in the cap of the conservation and breeding programme there.

The species is described as critically endangered in the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List.

"The addax is one of AWPR's conservation priorities," Dr Mike Maunder, Chief Conservation, Collection, and Education Officer, told Emirates Business. "AWPR is a member of the Sahara Conservation Fund, a consortium of conservation groups dedicated to the conservation and restoration of the Sahara-Sahel's biodiversity.

"With this group, we are developing conservation plans for the scimitar horned oryx, the dama gazelle and the addax. We have initiated a genetic study of our herd and we will be joining the international studbook for the species once we have completed the genetic study. Over the next few years, we will be expanding our breeding programme."

The addax, which originates in North Africa, is recognisable by its distinctive spiralled horns and is a member of the desert antelope family. It is closely related to the oryx but differs from other antelopes as it has large square teeth like cattle and lacks the typical facial glands.

The species has suffered a drastic decline over the past 21 years, with an estimated 80 per cent reduction in the total population due to uncontrolled hunting for leather and horns, drought and habitat loss.

AWPR is home to 50 addax and the birth of such a rare species is a significant achievement for the park.

Farshid Mehrdadfar, Manager of Animal Collections, said: "It's the winter and this is the time antelope give birth. It is AWPR's general practice to let nature take its course and we are nearly certain another addax will be born even though we are not sure of the time."

Keep up with the latest business news from the region with the Emirates Business 24|7 daily newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter, please click here.