Conserving the Hidden Nature: An Overview on Conservation Efforts in United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Abstract

The aim of the study is to document the threats faced by reptiles with other species in UAE and the conservation efforts done by Barari Forest Management (BFM). The study was conducted by reviewing the factors affecting the existing wildlife in 34 different sites under Barari Forest Management in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates from March to July, 2014. The data was collected using a combination of methods which included participatory observations and group discussions with local community including the residents, farmers, foresters, wildlife rangers / staff and field workers. The findings/ results of the study indicate that the major threats faced by existing herpeto-fauna and other associated wildlife in the study area were off road driving (25%) followed by desert safari (19%), human habitation (16%), illegal poaching (13%), human interaction (11%), habitat degradation (9%) and disturbance (7%). Majority of people (44.80%) believed that off road driving and desert safari are the most common threats to these reptiles and other wildlife, whereas 32.20% people thought that human interference and illegal poaching are the main cause of threats to reptiles and mammals, while 23% people didn’t know about the threats to herpeto-fauna. According to our findings 89.20% people liked wildlife including reptiles and mammals whereas, 10.80% respondents were indecisive and did not show much interest.