RIYADH: The King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority recorded more than 2,850 rare birds of prey wintering in the reserve, highlighting its role as a critical habitat for endangered species.

The authority participated in the national program monitoring the endangered steppe eagle’s numbers and wintering sites, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The initiative brought together the reserve, the Saudi Ornithological Society, the National Center for Wildlife, Telad, and BirdLife International.

The nationwide survey, conducted from Jan. 16 to 26, aimed to ensure accuracy and prevent double-counting.

Monitoring occurred in the early morning and late afternoon, when raptors are most active, the SPA reported.

Field teams identified more than 1,600 steppe eagles, over 1,200 black kites, 35 cinereous vultures, and 25 eastern imperial eagles, underscoring the reserve’s ecological importance as a raptor gathering area.

To reduce electrocution risks, the authority worked with the National Center for Wildlife in 2024 to insulate medium-voltage power towers and lines within the reserve.

A follow-up assessment found no bird fatalities beneath treated lines, confirming the measures’ effectiveness in protecting endangered raptors and their habitats.

The reserve includes five sites designated as Important Bird Areas and one globally recognized Key Biodiversity Area under bird-specific criteria.

Migratory birds account for about 88 percent of recorded species, with residents making up the remaining 12 percent.