The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) spotted recently a red-footed booby, a rare member of the booby family, during periodic monitoring operations on Qarnain Island in the Arabian Gulf region.

Considered one of the rarest and smallest booby species, it is widespread on the coasts and islands of tropical regions, yet remains very rare in the region, due to the lack of resident groups in the country.

Consisting of mainly fish and squid, the red-footed booby’s diet confirms its important role in the balance of the marine ecosystem, and although rare, the species is not considered threatened according to the IUCN Red List. Monitoring this bird represents a unique opportunity for a deeper understanding of wildlife and the importance of preserving natural habitats.

Ahmed Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, said, “This bird, which gets its name due to the red colour of its feet, has been added to the list of 426 bird species recorded in Abu Dhabi.

Al Hashemi added that these natural reserves, such as Al Wathba Wetland Reserve and Bul Syayeef Marine Protected Area, are of great importance to many types of migratory and resident birds. More than 260 species have been recorded so far in Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, which is considered the only location in the Arabian Gulf where the great flamingo breeds continuously.

This breeding activity represents an important sign of the tireless efforts made by the Agency to conserve these species.

Qarnain Island, a small islet located 180 kilometres northwest of the capital, Abu Dhabi, is considered a marine oasis and a safe haven for many birds, turtles, and other creatures.

In 2003, the International Union for Conservation of Nature announced the inclusion of the island and its surrounding waters into 81 groups of global reserves.

The Union has recognised these worldwide reserves since 1996 under various environmental topics such as forest protection, fresh water, marine ecosystems, and the protection of endangered species.