Abu Dhabi: The Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Program reaches a remarkable milestone, successfully rewilding 2,211 endangered Saker and Peregrine falcons.
Launched 29 years ago under the guidance of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the program showcases the UAE’s strong commitment to wildlife preservation. In addition to veterinary services provided by Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (ADFH), the SZFRP receives significant support from the Advisor of Private Affairs at the Presidential Court and the UAE Embassy in Kazakhstan.
This year, the programme released 52 falcons, 23 Peregrine falcons, and 29 Saker falcons under the supervision of the forests and wildlife committee at the Kazakh Ministry of Agriculture.
Mr. Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of Environment Agency Abu Dhabi and the International Fund for Houbara Conservation, commented that “Abu Dhabi continues its global pioneering efforts in preserving nature and protecting wildlife. This includes our exceptional endeavours to preserve falcons, houbara, and other wildlife of environmental, cultural, and historical importance. As a result, we have succeeded in increasing their chances of overcoming risks that threaten their survival and prosperity in nature.”
Mr. Al Bowardi also commended the successful partnership with Kazakhstan in this regard and thanked the Kazakhstan authorities for their cooperation and facilitation of the joint team’s work in implementing the program.
EAD extended its thanks to all falconers and those interested in wildlife for participating in this programme by donating wild Saker and Peregrine falcons to the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. The birds are then tested, rehabilitated, and released according to regulations and in line with scientific protocols used to promote wildlife and support efforts to preserve falcons in their natural habitats.