Al Ain Zoo recently welcomed the birth of three Arabian sand cats, marking the first time in several years that these endangered species have been born at the zoo. The arrival of the young sand cats highlights the zoo’s ongoing conservation efforts, particularly through its Arabian Sand Cat Breeding Centre, which operates under international standards to ensure the care and breeding of these rare animals.
The newborn sand cats are in good health, thriving in a specialized environment that adheres to global best practices in veterinary, nutritional, and behavioral care. The zoo’s teams have meticulously paired the cats based on their genetic origins and age groups to enhance breeding success.
Engineer Ahmed Eisa Al Harasi, Acting Director General of the Zoo & Aquarium Public Institution in Al Ain, expressed pride in the breeding program’s success and reaffirmed the zoo’s commitment to further conservation efforts. He emphasized the Arabian sand cat’s vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the desert ecosystem and the zoo’s dedication to raising public awareness about desert conservation.
Al Ain Zoo’s collaboration with various environmental agencies has led to significant achievements, including the development of the first strategy for sand cat conservation and the first management plan for sand cat populations. These initiatives were discussed in globally recognized workshops hosted by the zoo, involving experts from Arab, regional, and international organizations.
The zoo continues its research on the ecology and behavior of Arabian sand cats, contributing to the broader understanding and preservation of this endangered species.