RIYADH: The National Center for Wildlife released 20 gazelles and two brown vultures into the Ibex Reserve Protected Area in Al-Hariq governorate on Wednesday.
The move is part of the center's program to breed and resettle endangered local species in their natural habitats in all regions of the Kingdom, Saudi Press Agency reported.
The center’s CEO Muhammad Ali Qurban said the Ibex Reserve Protected Area possesses rich natural components and has witnessed the successful release of various animals.
He said that all releases are carried out according to scientific studies to ensure the suitability of the place for the adaptation of the creatures in it.
Qurban added that an increase in and resettlement of local endangered species restores biodiversity in natural environments, enhances ecological balance, and consolidates environmental sustainability.
It also contributes to achieving the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to build a positive and attractive environment and improve quality of life in line with global efforts to preserve the environment, he said.
He added that the center will release more than 1,000 wild animals in various reserves and national parks during this season after it was able to release 785 animals in the past season.