Newly found snake species in AlUla seen as symbol of Arabian Peninsula’s biodiversity

AlUla, a region increasingly recognized for its rich biodiversity, has unveiled a true ecological treasure with the discovery of the snake species “Rhynchocalamus hejazicus.” This significant find not only reinforces AlUla’s status as a global center for natural wonders but also as an emerging hub for ecological research.

The small, non-venomous reptile, marked by a vibrant reddish hue and a distinctive black collar, belongs to a genus primarily found in Jordan, Yemen and Oman.

Well-adapted to the sandy and rocky landscapes of the mountainous Hejaz region, the presence of Rhynchocalamus hejazicus in human-populated areas highlights the intricate interactions within AlUla’s ecosystems and the need for sustainable cohabitation strategies.

In addition to the snake discovery serving as a milestone and a source of inspiration for everyone who works to protect and preserve AlUla’s natural gifts, it also serves as a reminder of the excitement and wealth of opportunities that still await in the field of ecological science.

Having dedicated more than three decades to environmental conservation, I understand the formidable challenges ahead.

In particular, as global climate issues escalate in urgency, the task of protecting our flora and fauna becomes a daunting race against time — a race where it often seems the odds are stacked against us.

Research in AlUla into the ecology of arid environments is especially relevant to coping with climate change given rising temperatures.

Despite these hurdles, AlUla emerges as a beacon of hope and determination. Our focus on regeneration and protection is not just a policy but a proactive strategy, consistently yielding positive results that strengthen the Royal Commission for AlUla’s growth and sustainability objectives.

This steadfast commitment underscores RCU’s role as a leader in ecological resilience and conservation, inspiring those of us in the field to continue our efforts.

This significant find not only reinforces AlUla’s status as a global center for natural wonders but also as an emerging hub for ecological research.

Stephen Browne

The ecological initiatives underway in AlUla are groundbreaking. For example, our state-of-the-art Arabian Leopard Conservation Breeding Center in Taif is vital for the survival of the critically endangered Arabian leopard, housing 45 percent of the global population under human care and, currently, the only one actively breeding this subspecies.

The Royal Commission For AlUla has also allocated 12,500 sq km — more than 50 percent of the region — to create six nature reserves: Sharaan, Wadi Nakhlah, Al-Gharameel, Harrat Uwayrid, Harrat Al-Zabin and Harrat Khaybar.

Underscoring AlUla’s rich biodiversity is the identification of more than 500 flora species. From Abutilon fruticosum to Ziziphus spina-christi, they include lavender, nightshade, the saxaul shrub — which was traditionally used in a tea for pregnant women — various grasses, the citrullus vine — which is from the same genus as watermelon — and the fagonia flower with its pretty purple petals.

In 2023, AlUla achieved a significant conservation milestone by conducting its largest-ever animal release, reintroducing about 1,000 animals across three of its reserves. This initiative focused on reintroducing four native herbivore species: The Arabian gazelle, sand gazelle, Arabian oryx and Nubian ibex.

This strategic reintroduction of large herbivores is a critical step in the grassroots-to-apex restoration of the ecosystem, setting the stage for the eventual reintroduction of the Arabian leopard.

The Royal Commission for AlUla’s conservation efforts are ambitious and demonstrate how impactful and globally relevant ecological work can be when solid foundational elements are in place.

More than that, my colleagues and I have been able to renew our deep sense of inspiration from our planet, reinforcing our commitment to biodiversity preservation, ecosystem protection and sustainable coexistence between humans and nature.

Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, the Royal Commission for AlUla is a leading platform for ecological and wildlife restoration. This mission is vital as we contend with the pressures of an environmental ticking clock.

Our work, fueled by passion, diligence and scientific curiosity, underscores our enduring hope and affirms our belief in the transformative power of conservation to effect substantial and lasting ecological change.

• Stephen Browne is vice president of wildlife and natural heritage at the Royal Commission for AlUla.