Dunham K.M. 1995. Gazelles, oryx and ostriches in Saudi Arabia. Re-introduction News 11: 7-8.

Summary: During May 1995,13 captive-born mountain gazelle Gazella gazella from the KKWRC were released in the Ibex Reserve. This was the ninth group of gazelles to be released there since December 1990 and brought the total number of gazelles released in the Reserve to 84. From the original releases, by the end of 1994, 19 of the 71 gazelles freed during 1990-93 had died. At least 35% of the mortality was due to predation, either by wolves or feral dogs. Between 70% and 75% of the gazelles survived for at least one year after release. At the beginning of 1995, there were estimated to be between 150 and 185 gazelles in the reserve. A total of 164 captive-born sand gazelles Gazella subgutturosa have been released into Mahazat as-Sayd reserve in five groups. During mid-1995, it was estimated that there were altogether about 500 gazelles in the reserve. Between January and March 1995, 100 captive-born sand gazelles were released in the 'Uruq Bani Ma'arid Protected Area. Eight gazelles are known to have died since being released. Between 1990 and 1994, 76 Arabian oryx were released into the fenced Mahazat as-Sayd Reserve. In October 1995, there were estimated to be 180-200 oryx in the reserve. Forty six calves were born during 1994, while only three oryx are known to have died during this period. From March to June 1995, a total of 31 Arabian oryx were released into the 'Uruq Bani Ma'arid Protected Area. After release all the animals moved eastwards, some up to 130 km into the sand dunes of the Empty Quarter. One male oryx has died since the releases, but two calves have been born. The Arabian ostrich Struthio camelus syriacus was probably extinct by the late 1930's. The north African subspecies of the ostrich (S. c. camelus) is the closest relative of the Arabian ostrich, so during June 1994, seven captive-bred red-necked ostriches of Sudanese origin were released into Mahazat as-Sayd. During 1994, ostrich chicks were imported from Sudan to add to the captive collection of ostriches in Saudi Arabia.

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