Arabian bustard

The Arabian bustard is a captivating bird native to the Sahel region of Africa and southwest Arabia. Belonging to the Ardeotis genus, these birds are notably large, with males weighing between 5.7 to 10.9 kg and slightly smaller females weighing 4.5 to 7.7 kg. They are easily identifiable by their brown bodies, gray necks, and white undersides, complemented by a more slender build than other large African bustards.

Typically, Arabian bustards are either solitary or found in pairs, although some do migrate seasonally. Their nesting habits are quite simple; they lay one or two eggs in a shallow scrape on the ground. The females are solely responsible for incubating the eggs and raising the young. Their diet is diverse, consisting of locusts, grasshoppers, beetles, reptiles, small mammals, seeds, and fruits from various shrubs.

These birds are found across several countries, including Algeria, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. Unfortunately, their population has been declining due to hunting and habitat destruction, leading to their status being updated to Near Threatened. The population that once existed in Morocco is believed to be extinct.

There are a few recognized subspecies of the Arabian bustard: Ardeotis arabs arabs, Ardeotis arabs lynesi, Ardeotis arabs stieberi, and Ardeotis arabs butleri. To prevent further decline in their numbers, conservation efforts are crucial. Protecting their habitats and reducing hunting pressures are essential steps in ensuring the survival of this majestic bird.