Imam Turki Royal Reserve warns against harassing wildlife

The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve Development Authority has stressed the importance of adhering to regulations governing the protection of wildlife, warning against pursuing, harming, or endangering wild animals in any way. The statement follows the circulation of a video showing a hyena being chased within the reserve's boundaries.

The authority clarified that wildlife protection extends beyond a ban on hunting, and includes safeguarding animals in their natural habitats and refraining from any practices that could harm or threaten them. This includes chasing them with vehicles, frightening them, or subjecting them to any form of abuse. The authority emphasized that violations of environmental regulations will result in legal action against offenders, in accordance with relevant laws.

The authority noted that the striped hyena is among the species prohibited from being hunted, and the fine for hunting one is set at 80,000 riyals (SAR) per animal, according to the executive regulations for hunting terrestrial wildlife. The authority also stressed the importance of distinguishing between hunting violations and other practices that may constitute separate offenses, each subject to specific penalties.

The authority highlighted the environmental importance of the striped hyena, describing it as a species that helps maintain ecological balance by disposing of animal carcasses and recycling natural nutrients, thereby supporting ecosystem sustainability and biodiversity within the reserve.

The authority continues its monitoring and field efforts to protect wildlife and their habitats, and to address practices that threaten their safety in accordance with relevant regulations. It affirmed that preserving wildlife is a shared responsibility that requires public awareness and commitment to sound environmental behavior.

The authority called on citizens, residents, and visitors to the reserve to refrain from pursuing, disturbing, or harming wildlife, and to report any violations through the authority's unified number (920022077) to ensure prompt response and the necessary legal action.