Sunday, May 04, 2014
Al Ain: As part of its commitment to the conservation of arid land species, Al Ain Zoo has launch Arabian endangered species month.to raise public awareness.
Zoo keepers will lead a weekly discussion focusing on different species including the Arabian sand cat, Arabian leopard, Arabian Oryx, and the Ghaf tree. The initiative includes an endangered species tour and people will be asked to create their own masks and contribute their pictures for a collage to be put on display around a fence specifically designed for this activity at the zoo, said an official of the zoo.
A fun and educational cartoon presentation about the Arabian Oryx conservation story will also be exhibited at the Parrot Tent, and visitors will be able to enjoy screening of a children’s educational movie shot at the zoo.
Muna Al Daheri, Chief of Conservation and Education at Al Ain Zoo, said here institution is long been committed to wildlife preservation and is part of numerous partnerships and programmes both in the UAE and overseas.
“Our aim is to enlighten the public and encourage them to share this important commitment,” she said. Arabian Endangered Species Month will involve visitors in our cause by discovering our exciting animal exhibits in a fun and interactive way, she said.
Two additional activities will be held on May 16 and 17 in line with World Endangered Species Day, including a trail competition, where guests will be asked to follow a trail that leads to the most endangered species at the zoo, as well as a Ghaf tree planting, said Muna.
On May, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a photo exhibition, aptly themed Biodiversity and Water, in celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity. Activities have also been arranged to educate people on the importance of breeding and conservation programmes adopted by the zoo.
Al Ain Zoo is also home to international programmes and partnerships aimed at protecting critically endangered species through captive breeding, propagation, and the reintroduction of endangered species in to the wild, among others. The zoo has successfully introduced conservation and breeding programmes for a number of species over the past decades, including species of Oryx, gazelle, the Arabian Leopard and Houbara bustard.
Al Ain Zoo summer operating hours will begin in June, opening daily from 4pm to 10pm.
Staff Report
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