The zoo found international notoriety in 2016 when the singer Cher launched a campaign to remove its shackled Asian elephant Kaavan
Upon inspection by IFHC, which oversees one of the world's largest multi-region conservation projects to increase wild populations of the houbara species in its natural habitats, one of the original 12 houbaras was extremely sick and had to be euthanised.
"Had the infected smuggled houbara been eaten by a falcon it may have proven fatal to the raptor, so we thank our Customs and Quarantine colleagues in Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai for the diligent and professional care they showed these vulnerable creatures," said His Excellency Majid Ali Al Mansouri, IFHC's Managing Director.
With the 11 remaining bustards cleared of contagious diseases during IFHC's medical examinations, the recovering flock is responding well to rehabilitation and treatment ahead of their future release into the wild.
"Our plan is to release the birds following the completion of their rehabilitation," said Al Mansouri. "As a migratory species, if we release them in the UAE we are givingthem a chance to complete their migration back to their breeding ground. All birds will be fitted with satellite transmitters to monitor their movement and future migration."
Under UAE Law No. 11/2002, which relates to the smuggling of endangered animals, convicted smugglers face a potential fine of Dh20,000 to Dh50,000, and imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months.The far greater threat, however, lies in the potential health implications for falcons.
"Smuggling animals is a deplorable act and the Fund condemns the actions of the individuals in this case. Falconers need to understand they are putting their prized raptors at risk by exposing them to smuggled houbara which often carry lethal diseases," added Al Mansouri.
The zoo found international notoriety in 2016 when the singer Cher launched a campaign to remove its shackled Asian elephant Kaavan
It is expected to roll out preventive and proactive strategies, train and qualify specialists, and prepare scientific research and forecasting studies
A wave of exceptionally hot weather has blasted parts of South and Southeast Asia this week
These ports will be used for take-off and landing of flying vehicles and serve as hubs for passenger pick-up, drop-off, and battery charging
The luxurious PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR and PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic6 RSR editions are available only through invitation, adding more exclusivity and uniqueness
Many motorists who have their vehicles written off will also look for a new one, driving the demand
Spot gold was steady at $2,317.41 per ounce after staying mostly in negative territory earlier in the day
It is likely to be humid by night and Friday morning over some coastal and internal areas