AL AIN - For the first time since the zoo was opened 40 years ago, visitors will now be able to see rare vultures at the Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort. The vultures are the wildlife park’s latest additions to its already 4,300-strong animal family and are now on display in the ‘birds of prey’ aviary. 
The aviary, which also houses seven Steppe eagles and two Imperial eagles, will now be home to a White-headed vulture and two Lappet-faced vultures (pictured). Both vultures are endemic to Africa and are considered vulnerable to extinction. The White-headed vulture is a medium-sized, chunky vulture. The bird’s most distinguishing feature is a crest of white, as well as a pinkish beak. The White-headed vulture is predominantly found in sub-Saharan Africa. The Lappet-faced vulture is one of the largest and most powerful of all of the African vultures, possessing one of the strongest beaks. Like many vultures, it has a bald head; however, the pink coloration is a distinctive feature. As well as Africa, the Lappet-faced vulture can also be found in some Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman and Yemen. Located near the reptile house, the ‘birds of prey’ aviary is currently one of the most popular exhibits at the park. AWPR has plans to expand on the species represented in the bird show, and is also looking at introducing demonstrations in the vulture aviary in the
near future. The Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort animal collection is evolving to best represent the desert species of the world. Recently, a number of other desert dwelling species were revealed to the public including the White-bellied bustard, Egyptian vulture, Grant’s hedgehog and Savannah monitor lizard. The Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort stands on more than 900 hectares of land and is currently home to 4,300 animals, 30 per cent of which are considered to be endangered. Following the principles established in the Abu Dhabi 2030 Urban Framework Plan, it will become a model for cultural and ecological sustainability, conservation and education. The natural wildlife of the park and educational centres, in addition to the themed desert safaris, and a world leading arid land botanic gardens and plant collection, will provide both a centre
of learning excellence and a leisure destination. As part of the transformation into a wildlife resort, significant development is currently being undertaken to set the standards globally for conservation efforts. Construction of the Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort will be completed in three phases. Phase one of the project, including the African Safari and the Shaikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, will be finished by 2011. Phase two will be complete in 2012, and the completion date for phase three is 2013. news@khaleejtimes.com
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