The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced the sighting of a red-footed booby bird, a rare species, during its routine monitoring on Qarnain Island, a small island located 180km northwest of Abu Dhabi and is home to many birds, turtles, and other wildlife.
The red-footed booby is one of the smallest and rarest species in the booby family. While it is commonly found along tropical coastlines and islands, it is infrequently seen in this region due to the absence of resident populations. This slender, graceful seabird is named for its bright coral-red feet, which males display during courtship. Unlike most booby species that nest on the ground, the red-footed booby nests in trees, avoiding competition for nesting sites.
The bird’s diet primarily consists of fish and squid, highlighting its vital role in maintaining the marine ecosystem's balance. Although rare, the red-footed booby is not considered threatened, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. Monitoring this species provides a valuable opportunity to enhance our understanding of wildlife and underscores the importance of conserving natural habitats.
Ahmed Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, commented, "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. Since 2005, the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi has implemented a long-term programme to monitor migratory birds and major breeding species with the aim of protecting and preserving them. This helps to assess the status of breeding species and monitor migratory birds, including birds of prey and waterfowl that are important regionally and globally. Tracking important species assists EAD identify important places located within the Zayed Network of Natural Reserves managed by the agency."
Ahmed Al Hashemi also highlighted the significance of natural reserves, such as Al Wathba Wetland Reserve and Bul Syayeef Marine Protected Area, for various migratory and resident bird species. Over 260 bird species have been recorded in Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, unique in the Arabian Gulf for continuously hosting the breeding of the great flamingo.
This ongoing breeding activity underscores the agency’s dedicated efforts to conserve these species.