The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA),recently concluded its annual census of the UAE’s only endemic Kingfisher sub-species which saw an slight increase inthe numbersin theAlqurm Protected Area ofKhorKalba. A total of 131 birds were counted in this year’s census, a slight increase from 125 birds the year before.
Scientists from the authority havealso for the first time successfully bred 3 birds in captivity from eggs collected during this year’s breeding season. A single egg was collected from five different nests and then hatched in incubators at the Kalba Bird of Prey Centre.This is considered the first successfuleffortof its kind internationallyfor the Sub Species.
This rare species of birdsonly lives in the Alqurm Protected Area in KhorKalba, it is a recognized sub-species and is genetically different to other Collared Kingfishers in the rest of the world. The subspecies population is currently stable, but they stillface the threats to their survival in the form of pollution, alien species and a very limited habitat range surrounded by human development.
HE Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority said: “The authority has all the required resources and expertise that helped carry out this study successfully. The raised chicks of the Arabian Collared Kingfisher is being cared for by the dedicated team, atAl Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre.The UAE is home to a vast variety of species of birds and witnesses several birds migrate to the region all year round, especially from Europe, Asia and Africa.”
“We pay great attention in studying this species, starting our maiden study back in 2014. Based on our observation the number of birds born as result of mating reached 125 in 2019, increasing this year to 131. Preserving their habitat could be a challenge as it is usually involves protecting them from being destroyed and working constantly towards replenishing their food,” she further added.
Annual Census
The annual census of the species takes place in June or July each year during the kingfishers breeding season which starts from April until August. The survey takes place during the breeding season as this is when the birds are most territorial and easy to spot, the census takes 5 days to complete. It is carried out by EPAA scientistswith the help of dedicated volunteers who lend their valuable support in monitoring the birds.
Alqurm Protected Area
Alqurm Protected Area in Khor Kalba boasts of largeold growth mangroveforests on the eastern coast, it is believed to be some of the oldest mangroves on the Arabian Peninsula. It isalso known for its soil rich in nutrients and large stocks of blue carbon. The siteprovides a distinctive environment for the reproduction and development of many species including sea turtles, fish, crabs and varieties of invertebrates, the site serves as an important food source for many birds including Arabian collared kingfisher.
The Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority seeks to protect the environment, natural reserves, wildlife and their biological diversity by conducting scientific studies and research and implementing measures for pollution control. In addition the Authority seeks to increase awareness by educating individuals on the principles of sustainable development that could help preserve natural environmental resources, beneficial for the use and purpose of study among future generations.