Al buraimi: Environment Authority specialists in Al Buraimi Governorate have spotted the steppe eagle, one of the rare migratory birds of prey that visit the Sultanate of Oman during the winter season. The steppe eagle, globally listed among endangered species, is distinguished for its dark brown feathers, broad black wings, and its ability to fly over long distances during migration seasons.
According to Oman News Agency, the specialists pointed out that the steppe eagle’s sighting was part of monitoring programmes implemented by the Environment Authority in different natural environments in the Governorate of Al Buraimi. These programmes aim to preserve biodiversity and document rare and migratory species.
Mohammed Al Balushi, an environment systems specialist at the Environment Authority’s department in Al Buraimi Governorate, said that the existence of the steppe eagle is an important indicator of healthy ecosystems in the governorate, as these birds depend on open deserts rich with their natural prey.
He added that the sighting of the steppe eagle indicates that this bird of prey has found a natural habitat that meets its needs in the Governorate’s open desert. It also reflects ongoing efforts to monitor migrating birds and enhance their protection programmes.
Eng. Salim Al Maskari, Director of the Environment Department in Al Buraimi Governorate, stated that the Environment Authority emphasizes monitoring wildlife. He added that the Environment Department in Al Buraimi Governorate is implementing systematic plans to monitor biodiversity, in cooperation with research institutions.
Documenting endangered species, like the steppe eagle, reflects the attention given to enriching the national wildlife database and supporting the Sultanate of Oman’s efforts to safeguard biodiversity, Al Maskari said.
He explained that the steppe eagle is one of the large birds of prey widespread in the regions of Asia and Eastern Europe. The birds spend the winter in the warm regions of the Middle East.
The steppe eagle is about 65-80 cm long, with a wingspan of more than two metres. It feeds on rodents and small birds. This species faces several threats, including the loss of natural habitats and the decline in food sources.
Programmes for monitoring the steppe eagle seek to raise public awareness about the value of biodiversity in the Sultanate of Oman. These programmes align with the goals of environmental sustainability and the conservation of natural resources for future generations.