The National Center for Wildlife (NCW), in partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla, has released 30 chukar partridges (Alectoris chukar) into the Sharaan Nature Reserve, marking the launch of NCW's first-ever partridge release program under the National Program for the Breeding and Reintroduction of Endangered Wildlife Species.
NCW CEO Dr. Mohammed Qurban stressed that this release demonstrates the center's commitment to protecting natural habitats across the Kingdom, adding that the center is actively working to expand its breeding and rehabilitation programs for native species in collaboration with its partners.
This initiative is part of four specialized partridge breeding programs NCW is implementing to conserve native species and their natural habitats. These efforts directly support the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Green Initiative, and the National Environment Strategy.
Chukar partridges play a crucial ecological role in mountain and semi-mountainous environments. By feeding on insects and seeds, they help maintain the natural food chain. They are also a key indicator species—their presence signifies the stability and health of the wild environment.
NCW continues to implement its captive breeding and reintroduction programs for endangered species, adhering to the highest international standards. These programs, supported by specialized centers and rigorous monitoring, are fundamental to achieving the center's vision of creating thriving and sustainable wildlife, biodiversity, and ecosystems.
