A rare species of owls was found in the mountains of the United Arab Emirates.
The Emirates Wildlife Society, in collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature (EWS-WWF), recently discovered a new species of owl in the UAE - Bubo africanus milesi. Currently, the bird lives in the Hajar mountains in the Eastern region.
The new species was discovered during research conducted by Anthony Stoukert, a scientist from EWS-WWF, with the support of Sami Majid from the national park of the municipality of the emirate of Fujairah.
The new species indicates the importance of further research on the country's biodiversity, according to a statement published by EWS-WWF.
“Unfortunately, the rapid pace of development has become a serious threat to many of these creatures,” said the EWS-WWF science consultant. “Now more than ever it’s important that we step up our collective efforts to protect the main habitats and endangered species, which make up the rich natural heritage of the UAE. "
The research is funded by the Mohammed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund. The data collected will be used to create protected areas for rare and endangered species.
Bubo africanus milesi also lives in Yemen, in the southern Dofar region of Oman and in the Asir Mountains in southwestern Saudi Arabia, near the Red Sea. Such owls can grow up to 45 cm and weigh up to 800 grams.
Now scientists are wondering what other species are to be found in the mountains if such a large animal has been hidden for a long time.
