MUSCAT : The Environment Conservation Department in Musandam has conducted a series of surveys across the National Nature Park Reserve, focusing on wildlife, marine life, and wetlands. The surveys covered a wide range of areas, including terrestrial, marine, and beach environments, providing valuable data for Oman’s environmental indicators on a global scale.

The land surveys in the Rawdah Natural Area revealed diverse wildlife, including red foxes, “Blavender” foxes, and various species of birds such as ospreys, yellow birds, and mountain birds. Additionally, plant species like perennial sidr and samr trees, as well as kuitar, shoa, and camel’s hump, were identified.

On the beaches of Bukha, the absence of erosion was noted across nine sandy beaches, extending from Al Jadi to the Tibat beaches. These pristine coastlines are home to seabirds and crustaceans, with nesting sites of sea turtles also being a positive indicator of a healthy marine environment.

Surveys of coral reefs near Hablain and Maqaqa Islands documented vibrant coral communities, including the Qarnibiti and Akopora species. Further north, in Khor Qadi, seabird populations such as gulls, grey herons, and rock herons were monitored.

According to Engineer Noura bint Abdullah Al Shehhi, Head of the Environmental Conservation Section, these surveys are crucial for building Oman’s environmental database and showcasing the nation’s natural assets at the global level.

Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al Shehi, Environmental Inspector, emphasized the department’s commitment to expanding Oman’s green areas. This year alone, 7,000 wild seedlings were distributed, and over one million seeds were collected to aid in reforestation efforts, with a focus on species like Sidr, Samr, and Shua.

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