Saudi nature reserve celebrates 12 rock hyrax births in biodiversity boost

RAFHA, Northern Borders: Saudi Arabia’s Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve has recorded 12 rock hyrax births during the first quarter of 2026, in another sign of improving biodiversity and habitat recovery efforts across the vast protected area, according to a report by the Saudi Press Agency.

The reserve authority said the births reflect the success of breeding and environmental protection programs aimed at strengthening wildlife sustainability and boosting populations of desert species in their natural habitats.

The rock hyrax births are part of a broader wave of wildlife reproduction at the reserve, which documented more than 90 births of various wild species in the first quarter of 2026 alone.  Among the other wildlife species were Arabian gazelles, Arabian oryx, Cape hares and red-necked ostriches.

Officials said the figures highlighted the growing effectiveness of reintroduction and habitat-management programs, with many species now reproducing naturally in the wild rather than relying on captive breeding.

The rock hyrax, a small herbivorous mammal adapted to rugged mountain and rocky environments, shelters in caves and rock crevices that protect it from predators and harsh desert conditions. Despite its compact appearance, the species is known for remarkable agility, aided by specialized rubbery pads on its feet that help it grip steep and smooth rock surfaces.

Environmental experts consider the species an important part of desert ecosystems because it contributes to vegetation balance and supports the wider food chain.

Established by royal decree in 2018, the nature reserve spans up to 104,800 square kilometers across parts of Al-Jouf, Qassim, Hail and the Northern Borders. It is managed by the Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve Development Authority. 

The reserve includes diverse landscapes ranging from sand dunes and wadis to basalt plateaus and seasonal floodplains.

Authorities overseeing the reserve have expanded restoration efforts in recent years through native tree planting, rangeland rehabilitation, anti-poaching patrols and wildlife monitoring programs supported by scientific surveys and aerial observation.

The reserve is also home to species including the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, caracal and migratory birds such as the Asian houbara, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s broader environmental strategy to protect biodiversity and restore natural habitats for future generations.