Meet Neom’s Newest Wild Resident: The Striped Hyena Cub
A bold new chapter is unfolding for one of Saudi Arabia’s native predators, as the birth of a striped hyena cub marks a promising milestone in the species’ return to the wild.
A New Chapter for the Hyenas
Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Wildlife (NCW), in collaboration with Neom, has celebrated the birth of the first striped hyena cub since two breeding pairs were reintroduced to the Neom Nature Reserve.
The cub’s arrival offers a promising indication that the reintroduced hyenas have successfully adapted to the reserve and are capable of reproducing in the wild, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
More significantly, the birth adds to the NCW’s growing achievements in wildlife breeding and reintroduction, as the Kingdom is broadening its push to restore native species and revive the natural roles of predators within their ecosystems.
A Carefully Planned Return
The hyenas’ return to the wild was supported by a series of preparations aimed at ensuring they were ready to thrive in their new environment.
Firstly, two pairs were carefully selected and placed under a rehabilitation program at an NCW wildlife-care facility. There, they underwent veterinary examinations and regular health monitoring.
Gradually, the animals were also prepared for the transition from managed care to life in the wild.
Before the release, the reintroduction site was also carefully evaluated by a specialized NCW field team, which assessed its readiness and ecological suitability to support the return of the species.
Restoring Balance to the Wild
According to NCW CEO Dr. Mohammed Qurban said, the birth of the first striped hyena cub marks a remarkable milestone in the center’s wildlife breeding and reintroduction programs.
Striped hyenas play a vital ecological role as scavengers, feeding on carcasses and carrion. However, their populations have declined in some areas due to threats such as hunting and poisoning.
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