Let’s coexist with the nature

Reem gazelles are an inspiration in Arabic poetry. They are graceful and quick, with eyes that capture your breath. No wonder so many poets bring them into their lines and verses. They like to be in herds because it keeps them protected. However, poaching and capturing them have threatened the population of sand gazelles. This week, we are going to witness something wonderful — the reintroduction of 54 sand gazelles into the Empty Quarter from the Wilayat of Maqshin. The desert is their natural environment, their playground. However, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has given them the status of Vulnerable. Their legs are slim and seem tender, but watch them go, and you will notice they run into the horizon in a flash. Climate change and habitat loss have also impacted their population. It is known that if a person manages to obtain a gazelle at a young age, they can be tamed, which is one of the reasons people want to capture them. Hunting was common before the 1970s, but today, there is greater awareness about the importance of preserving wildlife. They are a heritage, and nature evolves too, adapting to changes to protect them. It was fascinating to read this report that came out in the early 2000s. In 2006, Science Daily reported: “A fascinating new study from the July/August issue of Physiological and Biochemical Zoology reveals that gazelles in the deserts of Saudi Arabia have evolved the ability to shrink oxygen-demanding organs such as the liver and heart, allowing them to breathe less.” Maybe humans have been adapting too, using their minds to create devices to beat the heat. Of course, we are creatures of habit and inclined to follow trends. Oman has beautiful wadis, some of which may not have pools of water but are rich in greenery. Walking through one such scenic spot, it was a delight to see families of wild donkeys grazing along but pausing to watch the intruder who was enjoying the walk and photography. Suddenly, there was some quick movement in the bush. For the first time, I saw a sand partridge with its family. The sand partridge was gathering its family and rushing off. The guide explained they are the first to leave a site if they spot anyone. They walked away quickly.

Now, what does the IUCN say about the sand partridge?

“The sand partridge is listed as 'Least Concern' by the IUCN. The sand partridge has a large range and is deemed common and stable in the regions it resides in.” The sand partridge can lay anywhere from 5 to 14 eggs. Even though they are referred to as game birds, they have managed to sustain their population. It is indeed beautiful to coexist. These animals and birds were not in cages or behind fences. Instantly, I felt admiration for the people who live in this area. They have been happily coexisting, with children respecting the birds and animals. No one chases or teases them. This stretch of wadi has a natural road that runs through it, yet the partridges walked comfortably with their families. It was such a pretty sight that the camera was all but forgotten. Some moments and scenes are just for the soul. So this month, once again, the Empty Quarter will witness the grazing of the Reem gazelles. Later, more families will be released in Rimal Al Sharqiya. It is indeed a beautiful moment to cherish.