Milestone in Houbara bustard breeding programme

SUPPLIED

The International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC) has announced the first-ever successful birth of the Arabian bustard through IVF.

The procedure was successfully completed at Abu Dhabi’s National Avian Research Centre (NARC). 

The milestone birth is an important step towards the eventual return of the Arabian bustard, classified as Near Threatened due to hunting and habitat degeneration.

A study, conducted by NARC took nearly two years, and succeeded in developing a special technique for artificial insemination.

Following an incubation period of 22 days, the chick hatched into the world, weighing 66 grams. The mother is a six-year-old Arabian bustard, both she and the father were bred in captivity as part of IFHC’s breeding programme.

"The birth of this Arabian bustard chick is a significant moment in Abu Dhabi’s efforts to conserve vulnerable species," said Majid Al Mansouri, Managing Director, IFHC.

He said it gives crucial data in conservation efforts.

"A testament to the hard work and commitment of our team, this historic hatchling is a moment to celebrate, but it is only the beginning of our future efforts to preserve the Arabian bustard species."

More from Local

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Best of Dubai Eye 103.8

    Noon - 7:00pm

    Hear the highlights from the week gone by on Dubai Eye 103.8. Listen again to the best interviews, advice and the top stories that has gripped our conversation this week.

  • The Music Mix

    7:00pm - 11:00pm

    Enjoy your favourite music back to back commercial free, tune in to the Music Mix everyday from 1 until 2 for the music you love and the news updates you need

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!