The story of the Scimitar-horned Oryx (Oryx dammah) is an inspiring example of how global cooperation can lead to the recovery of endangered species. Once widespread in both the northern and southern parts of the Sahara, this magnificent desert antelope was nearly wiped out by decades of hunting and other human activities. So much so that the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classified the species as ‘Extinct in the Wild’ in 2000.
But the Scimitar-horned Oryx’s fortunes have turned for the better with the launch of an ambitious reintroduction programme in Chad, eight years after the first attempt to reintroduce the species to protected areas. These efforts are now paying off, as the latest update to the IUCN Red List has downgraded the Scimitar-horned Oryx’s status to ‘Endangered’.
The reintroduction of this majestic antelope was no easy task. It began with the establishment of captive breeding programs, with zoos and private herds playing a crucial role in maintaining genetic diversity. Subsequently, close partnerships were forged between several organizations, including the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency (EAD), the Chadian government, Sahara Conservation and the Zoological Society of London (ZSL).
The first release of Scimitar-horned Oryx into the wild took place in 2016, and since then multiple groups have been released, steadily increasing the wild population. With over 600 individuals now roaming free in the arid grasslands of Chad, this success story shows that concerted efforts and dedication can lead to the recovery of even the most critically endangered species.
The reclassification of the Scimitar-horned Oryx on the IUCN Red List to 'Endangered' is an encouraging sign of progress. It also highlights the importance of continued monitoring and protection to ensure these magnificent animals do not once again reach the brink of extinction.
This story shows that when conservation organizations, governments and other stakeholders work together, even the most seemingly hopeless situations can be turned around. The recovery of the Scimitar-horned Oryx is a testament to hope and a reminder of the power of collaboration in preserving our precious biodiversity.
Status over the years:
2016 - Extinct in the wild (EW) 1996 – Critically Endangered (CR) 1986 – Endangered (E)
2008 - Extinct in the wild (EW) 1994 – Endangered (E) 1965 – Unknown
2007 - Extinct in the wild (EW) 1990 – Endangered (E)
2000 - Extinct in the wild (EW) 1988 – Endangered (E)
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