Six Invasive Bird Species Identified as Threats to UAE Ecosystems
Authorities are targeting birds that compete with native wildlife and disrupt ecological balance.
Six invasive bird species have been identified as priority threats under the UAE National Invasive Species Strategy and Action Plan, which aims to strengthen biodiversity protection and coordinate management efforts across the country.
According to the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the species can adapt and reproduce rapidly, compete with native birds for food and nesting sites, disrupt ecological balance and potentially spread diseases.
The priority list includes the common myna, bank myna, rock pigeon, Indian house crow, Alexandrine parakeet and rose-ringed parakeet.
The strategy establishes a unified framework for managing invasive species in coordination with authorities across the seven emirates.
Its objectives include raising public awareness, strengthening institutional capabilities, preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species and improving cooperation at the national, regional and international levels.
Measures already being implemented include improving waste management to reduce access to food sources, developing species-specific control plans based on international practices and restoring ecosystems affected by invasive populations.
Regular emergency response simulations are also being carried out to improve preparedness and coordination among federal and local authorities, academic institutions and non-governmental organisations.
