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Location:
22o15´ N, 41o50´ E
Area:
2,141 km2
Type:
Special Nature Reserve.
Year of establishment:
1988 Special Nature Reserve
1989 NCWCD Reserve
Objective:
To protect the biological diversity and habitat of the
area Protection and reintroduction of endangered species
Research, education, tourism and recreation.
Management:
National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development
(NCWCD)
Geographical aspects:
A fairly level sandy plain at 900 to1100 m with a few
rock outcrops, temporary pools can form due to rainfall,
175 km northeast of Taif and south of Al Muwayh.
There are three divisions:
- Alraha division according to Alraha valley West
of the reserve.
- Alsimar division according to the dark colored land
in the center of the reserve.
- Almeskal division according to the level sandy plains
East of the reserve.
Flora:
Moderately to well vegetated in parts with Acacia tortilis,
Indigofera and Salsola as dominant shrub trees; dense
grass Panicum often covers sandier areas, and some dry
wadis have large Maerua trees.
Fauna:
The first reserve in Saudi Arabia for the reintroduction
of Oryx leucoryx. The reserve is a key re-introduction
site for Gazella and Chlamydotis. Around 115 species
of birds and 6 species of rodents have been recorded.
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