First Striped Hyena Birth Recorded at NEOM Nature Reserve

The first striped hyena birth has been recorded at NEOM Nature Reserve following the reintroduction of two breeding pairs into the protected area.

The National Center for Wildlife, working with NEOM, said the birth forms part of its wider breeding and reintroduction programmes for predator species, aimed at restoring natural ecological roles within protected habitats.

Before release, the two pairs were selected and rehabilitated at a wildlife care facility operated by the centre. Preparations included veterinary examinations, health monitoring and conditioning for life in the wild.

A specialist team also carried out a field assessment of the reintroduction site to confirm that the habitat was suitable for the species before the animals were released.

Striped hyenas play a role in ecosystems by feeding on carcasses and carrion. Their populations have declined in parts of their natural range due to threats including hunting and poisoning.