As we approach World Animal Day on Oct. 4, we take a look at some of the Middle East’s national animals.
The chukar partridge is Iraq’s national animal. The birds, with light brown backs, grey breasts and buff bellies, have a lifespan of 15-20 years.
Despite being Morocco’s national animal, barbary lions are now extinct. It was the largest lion subspecies and was admired for its size and dark mane.
Palestine’s mountain gazelles are the Middle East’s most iconic mammals. The tan, white and black gazelles have been placed on the endangered list amid a dramatic decline in their numbers.
Found on the country’s flag, the national animal of Egypt is the majestic steppe eagle. The bird dwells in semi-arid areas.
Arabian camels are Kuwait’s national animal. Also known as the “ship of the desert,” the animal has served as a transport method for traveling nomads for centuries.
The Arabian Oryx seems to be a popular choice as it is the national animal of several countries in the Middle East. The animal was targeted by hunters until it almost became extinct in the wild, but conservationists pulled the species back from the brink.
