Qatar is set to establish a dedicated area in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region to safeguard rare migratory birds, as reported by local news outlet Kurdistan24.
Qatar is set to establish a dedicated area in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region to safeguard rare migratory birds, as reported by local news outlet Kurdistan24. The move aims to provide a protected space for these avian travelers as they pass through the region, marking a significant step towards biodiversity preservation.
The plan was discussed in a meeting between Qatari Consul General to Erbil, Hussain Bin Ali Al-Fadala, and the head of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Board of Investment, Mohammad Shukri. The proposed conservation site will be situated in Erbil Plains, encompassing areas such as Kandenawa and Shamamik Plains.
Qatar has increasingly become a crucial “stop-over” site for migratory birds, hosting more than 300 bird species. This includes notable visitors such as the European turtle dove, Eurasian hobby, greater flamingo, greylag goose, Caspian gull, Eurasian stone-curlew, and long-legged buzzard, among others. The establishment of a designated sanctuary underscores Qatar’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the protection of diverse bird species.
The Gulf state has been recognized for its role in providing habitat for migratory birds, as reported by the Peninsula in October. The country’s diverse ecosystem serves as a crucial habitat for these winged travelers during their extensive journeys. The establishment of a conservation area in Iraqi Kurdistan further solidifies Qatar’s dedication to preserving biodiversity on a regional scale.
Presently, Mount Peramagroon in Sulaimani province holds the status of an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA). This designation signifies global importance for the conservation of bird populations, adhering to internationally agreed-upon criteria. While Iraq boasts 412 bird species, including 19 globally threatened ones, it currently houses 74 IBAs.
Despite ongoing conservation efforts and stringent laws, Iraq’s bird population faces multifaceted challenges, including illegal hunting, deforestation, trafficking, and the impacts of climate change on natural habitats. The Egyptian Vulture Conservation Project in Iraq highlights the need for comprehensive measures to address these challenges and ensure the long-term survival of diverse bird species.
Qatari Consul General Hussain Bin Ali Al-Fadala expressed the nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability, stating, “This conservation initiative reflects Qatar’s dedication to preserving biodiversity and contributing to international efforts in protecting migratory birds and their habitats.” The collaboration with the Kurdistan Regional Government signifies a shared commitment to fostering environmental conservation and raising awareness about the importance of preserving fragile ecosystems.
As the designated sanctuary takes shape in Erbil Plains, it is anticipated to play a pivotal role in supporting the conservation of rare migratory birds, setting a positive precedent for collaborative efforts in the region. The initiative aligns with global conservation goals and reinforces the significance of international cooperation in safeguarding the natural world for future generations.