Mammals
Mammals are considered an important component of ecosystems, as their used as an ecosystem health indicator. A total of 78 mammalian species were recorded in the Kingdom; belonging to 8 orders with 31 species of bats, 20 rodents, 14 carnivores, 4 ungulates, 6 insectivores (shrews and hedgehogs), and one primate, one hyrax, and one hare.
In recent years, mammals have been exposed to many forms of threats, such as overhunting, poisoning of predators, urban expansion, and the destruction and fragmentation of natural habitats. Some species have gone extinct from their natural habitats in the wild, such as the Asiatic lion, cheetah and the Saudi gazelle. The Arabian leopard has been evaluated as critically endangered due to habitat degradation and poisoning. NCW is conducting studies to monitor the mammals’ populations in existing and proposed protected areas, Key Biodiversity Areas and wetlands.
- 1. Conduct field surveys studying mammals’ distribution, abundance, and density.
- 2. Evaluate the national status of the mammals of Saudi Arabia.
- 3. Develop conservation plans and programs for wild mammals in the Kingdom.
- 4. Raise awareness of guidelines and standards for the conservation of mammals.
- 5. Conduct an annual census of the ungulates in the center’s Protected Areas and monitor reintroduced animals.
- 6. Monitor and analyze the impact of invasive species proposing control and eradication protocols.
- 7. Oversee complaints received concerning wild mammals.
- 8. Develop Conservation Action Plan to protect endangered species.
Duties of the Department of Terrestrial Mammals:
