First striped hyena born at NEOM Reserve marks conservation milestone

NEOM Nature Reserve has welcomed the first striped hyena born in the wild following the reintroduction of two breeding pairs. The National Center for Wildlife (NCW) documented the birth, calling it a positive sign of the animals' successful adaptation and reproductive capability within the reserve.

This event represents a significant achievement for the NCW's wildlife breeding and reintroduction initiatives, particularly for predator species. The program involved selecting two breeding pairs, subjecting them to a rehabilitation process including veterinary checks and health monitoring, and assessing the reintroduction site's ecological suitability.

Dr. Mohammed Qurban, CEO of NCW, highlighted the birth as a key milestone, emphasizing that reintroducing species into their natural habitats is a crucial step toward establishing self-sustaining populations and restoring ecological balance. Striped hyenas play a vital role in cleaning ecosystems by feeding on carcasses, and their reintroduction is part of efforts to counteract threats like hunting and poisoning that have led to population declines in their natural range.

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This is the first striped hyena birth following their reintroduction, and it marks an important milestone in the center’s wildlife breeding and reintroduction programs.