RIYADH: Preparations are complete for the start of the Baha Winter Festival. More than 67 parks and gardens, some 14 sports, and health walkways are ready to welcome visitors and residents, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The festival will boast a diverse lineup of activities and attractions across the Tihama governorates, including Al-Makhwah, Qilwah, Al-Hijrah, and Ghamid Al-Zinad, highlighting the region’s cultural, historic, and natural treasures.

Ali bin Mohammed Al-Sawat, the secretary of the Baha region and chairman of the festival’s executive committee, said the event will offer more than 280 recreational, cultural, sports, and social activities for all age groups and interests.

Al-Sawat spoke of Tihama’s unique climate and environmental diversity, stretching from the Red Sea coast to the peaks of the Sarawat Mountains.

The region’s valleys, green plains, and majestic Shada Mountain provide breathtaking views and a peaceful escape for visitors, he said.

With a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shopping destinations, the area has become a prime attraction for tourists seeking to enjoy the winter season in the Kingdom, the SPA added.

With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse activities, the Baha Winter Festival promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

RIYADH: The National Center for Wildlife published a study titled “Predator Diversity and Conservation in Saudi Arabia” in the journal Diversity, documenting 14 predator species across six families in the Kingdom.

Using camera trap technology, the center recorded 4,787 nights of footage from 58 predator habitats, gathering data on species diversity, diet, distribution, threats, and habitat characteristics, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The red fox was the most frequently observed species, recorded in 15 ecological sites, followed by the striped hyena, seen in 13 sites, with the highest number in the Raidah Protected Area in Asir.

The Arabian wolf was also widespread, while the honey badger was the least frequently observed, SPA reported.

The study confirmed that Saudi Arabia’s habitats, especially in the southwestern regions of Asir, Jazan, the Najran highlands, and the Sarawat Mountains, support diverse predator species. The sand cat and sand fox were also noted in desert ecosystems.

The research highlighted significant threats to predators, including killing, poisoning, trafficking, and habitat loss, according to SPA.

CEO of the National Center for Wildlife Mohammed Ali Qurban emphasized the need for further research to better understand the species’ lives, habitats and genetic traits.

“This will enrich our scientific knowledge, enhance the effectiveness of habitat rehabilitation and conservation plans, and positively impact the protection of biodiversity for these wild animals in their natural habitats,” he said.