A rare Egyptian vulture has been seen feeding its chick for the first time ever in AlUla, the ancient oasis city in northwest Saudi Arabia. The sighting took place on the cliffs of Sharaan National Park, a protected area known for its landscapes and biodiversity, according to a statement shared with Saudi Streets.
The newborn chick, estimated to be about two to three weeks old, marks the first confirmed case of Egyptian vulture breeding in the region.
This is seen as a hopeful sign for the species, which is currently listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The Egyptian vulture is a small but striking bird, known for its white and black feathers, bright yellow face, and wedge-shaped tail. Historically considered sacred in ancient Egypt and often depicted in hieroglyphs, the bird is also one of the few species known to use tools. It has been observed using stones to crack eggs and sticks to gather nesting materials like wool.
Sharaan National Park, recognized on the IUCN Green List for its high conservation standards, offers a safe haven for the species. AlUla’s rugged terrain, remote canyons, and dedicated conservation efforts have created the ideal environment for the birds to breed and thrive.
Experts believe there are about 50 pairs of Egyptian vultures left in Saudi Arabia, according to the statement. In AlUla alone, three breeding territories have been identified this year, and research suggests the area could support as many as 10 pairs.
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