Rescue and release of the barred tree owl from Al Wurayah in Fujairah

The wild biodiversity team at the Fujairah Environment Authority was able to save the barred tree owl (Otus brucei), after it was found by a worker on the surrounding farms, who immediately initiated contact with the authority, which in turn directed the wild biodiversity team to move quickly to take the necessary measures to protect and treat the bird.

The bird was transported safely to the reserve’s headquarters, after taking standard biometric measurements and conducting a comprehensive health examination to ensure that it was free of injuries, stress or dehydration.

After ensuring his safety, an official induction ring was installed by the authority, before he was released again to return to his natural habitat.

The barred tree owl is a resident species in the UAE, and is adapted to mountainous and desert environments. It has been documented as a breeding species within the Wadi Wurayah National Reserve as part of ongoing night monitoring programs, which confirm its continued presence and reproduction in the region.

This species is active at night, feeding mainly on insects and small invertebrates, and plays an important environmental role in regulating insect numbers and maintaining environmental balance.

It is worth noting that the owl monitoring team at the Fujairah Environment Authority has been working since 2019 according to a systematic program for night monitoring in the Wadi Wurayah National Reserve and its surrounding areas, which includes night field surveys, audio monitoring using recording devices, monitoring nesting sites, collecting biometric data, flying, numbering and releasing birds, and documenting natural habitats.

These efforts resulted in the recording of 7 out of the 9 species of owl recorded in the UAE within the scope of the reserve, which reflects the high environmental value of the reserve and its importance as a major haven for nocturnal biodiversity.

In this context, the Director of the Department of Biodiversity and Natural Resources at the Fujairah Environment Authority, Dr. Ali Al Hamoudi, said that the process of rescuing and releasing the striped tree owl reflects the readiness of the authority’s teams and the speed of their response in dealing with wildlife reports, within the framework of its commitment to protecting local species and preserving natural ecosystems.

He said: “At the Fujairah Environment Authority, we call on all members of society to be ambassadors for the environment, through continuous cooperation and coordination, by reporting any cases related to injured or threatened wildlife through the toll-free number 800368 and official communication channels, to ensure that they are dealt with in accordance with the approved environmental procedures.”