RCU announces arrival of new leopard in Taif

Saudi Gazette report

TAIF — The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has announced the arrival of a new Arabian leopard at the Arabian Leopard Breeding Center (ALBC) in Taif. This initiative is a key part of RCU’s ongoing commitment to preserve and protect the Arabian leopard, thereby contributing to environmental balance in AlUla, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.

This newly arrived leopard marks the second addition to the breeding program, playing a vital role in enhancing genetic diversity within the population. In adherence to the breeding agreement, the RCU has expressed its willingness to potentially transfer leopard cubs to broader centers across the peninsula in the future. This approach aims to foster the sharing of knowledge and expertise in the crucial breeding process.

The first leopard, named Al Ain, joined the ALBC from the Al Bustan Zoological Center in the UAE last April. Since then, Al Ain has become an integral part of the ALBC’s leopard population, successfully integrated in July. This ongoing effort by the RCU not only supports the conservation of the Arabian leopard but also underscores the importance of international collaboration in safeguarding endangered species.