MUSCAT: Oman’s Environment Authority has issued a warning against the unauthorised filming and pursuit of wild animals in their natural habitats, saying such activities can harm wildlife, disrupt ecosystems and expose people to potential dangers.

In a statement, the authority said it had recently monitored cases in which some content creators used social media platforms to film and track wild animals in natural environments in Dhofar Governorate without obtaining the required permits.

The authority described the practices as irresponsible behaviour with potentially serious consequences for wildlife. It said chasing or closely approaching animals can cause stress and disturbance, alter their natural behaviour and increase the risk of injury to both animals and people.

The authority also warned that such actions can negatively affect ecological balance and disturb wildlife within their natural habitats.

It urged the public to comply with regulations and official guidelines governing interactions with wildlife, stressing that filming or pursuing wild animals without prior authorisation constitutes a violation of Oman’s nature reserves and wildlife protection laws.

According to the statement, the activities may breach provisions of the Natural Reserves and Wildlife Conservation Law issued under Royal Decree No. 6/2003 and its executive regulations.

The Environment Authority said it would coordinate with relevant agencies to monitor offending content and take the necessary legal measures against violators, reaffirming its commitment to protecting wildlife and preserving Oman’s natural environment.

The authority called on content creators and visitors to respect environmental regulations and ensure that wildlife observation and photography activities are conducted responsibly and in accordance with the law.