Riyadh: The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve is home to 184 bird species, around 69% of which are migratory. Nine of the recorded species are of global significance, highlighting the reserve's importance as a natural habitat and stopover for migratory birds and reinforcing its role in protecting species, preserving migration routes, and safeguarding biodiversity.
According to Saudi Press Agency, among the prominent birds of prey recorded in the reserve is the steppe eagle (Aquila nipalensis), classified globally as an endangered species. Groups of up to 40 individuals have been recorded in the reserve's eastern half. Other notable species include the eastern imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca), a rare winter visitor and one of the most valuable birds of prey; the Pharaoh eagle-owl (Bubo ascalaphus), an adept nocturnal hunter that inhabits the desert environment; and the booted eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus), which passes through the reserve's skies to spend the winter between Africa and the Middle East.
Together, these species reflect the diversity of birds of prey that inhabit the reserve or pass through its skies during migration seasons. The reserve works to protect these species through field monitoring and by tracking birds within their natural habitats, while also preserving environments that provide suitable sites for migration, stopovers, and rest. These efforts contribute to the sustainability of ecosystems and strengthen the protection of species of environmental importance.
The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve is characterized by diverse terrain and ecosystems, including valleys, ravines, plains, sand dunes, and lava fields. Covering about 91,500 square kilometers, the reserve provides a range of habitats that support rich biodiversity and attract diverse species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and plants.