Abu Dhabi:The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) has introduced the Abu Dhabi Wildlife Response Network, aimed at improving rapid response, coordination, and care for wildlife facing distress throughout the emirate.
According to Emirates News Agency, this collaborative effort unites government entities, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, private stakeholders, and community members. The network is designed to facilitate responsible reporting, timely intervention, effective rehabilitation, and the successful release of wildlife back into their natural environments.
The initiative was announced during an event on Saadiyat Island, which emphasized efforts to rescue and rehabilitate wildlife. The program included a presentation on the network, recognition of contributing partners and individuals, and concluded with the release of rehabilitated sea turtles off the island's shores.
Since 2016, EAD has been involved in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, starting with sea turtles and later extending to sea snakes, dugongs, dolphins, and birds. This new network leverages EAD's experience and underscores its commitment to preserving Abu Dhabi's biodiversity. Maitha Mohamed Al Hameli, Acting Executive Director, Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity of EAD, highlighted the importance of rapid response and collaboration in protecting wildlife.
The network introduces a digital framework for rescue operations, which includes public and partner reports, case logging, and assessment. A field team is dispatched to stabilize animals before they are transferred to a rehabilitation center for specialized care. Successfully rehabilitated animals are released back into the wild, while those needing further attention receive ongoing care.
Additionally, the network will serve as a platform for sharing expertise and scientific insights, coordinating stakeholder efforts, and achieving lasting conservation results. The data collected will support conservation actions, species recovery, and guide strategic approaches to biodiversity protection.
Future plans for the network include expanding capabilities with technologies for real-time tracking and reporting, continuous rescue team training, and international collaboration on complex wildlife emergencies. Public education and citizen engagement will remain integral, reinforcing community roles in conservation.