RIYADH: Qassim National Park in Buraidah has recorded the birth of an Arabian oryx for the third successive year, marking an important environmental milestone and reflecting the ongoing success of the release and reintroduction programs initiated by the National Center for Wildlife.

The NCW seeks to preserve endangered species and enhance the biodiversity of their natural habitats, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The achievement is a success for the pioneering collaboration between the NCW and the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification through initiatives such as vegetation enhancement, natural habitat rehabilitation, and the creation of suitable conditions for the breeding and sustainability of wild species.

Qassim National Park is one of several national parks implementing afforestation and environmental rehabilitation projects under the Saudi Green Initiative, strengthening the region’s ecological diversity and showcasing the role of national parks as models of successful environmental sustainability programs in the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia is a global leader in protecting the Arabian oryx. Since the 1970s it has collaborated with international organizations to save the species from extinction.

The Arabian oryx, which belongs to the bovine family, is classified as an endangered species and the resettlement programs for such threatened animals reflect commitment to working to support ecological balance, enriching biodiversity, and preserving species whose numbers have declined due to environmental factors and loss of vegetation cover.