First Onager Born in Saudi Arabia in Over a Century Marks Conservation Milestone

In June 2025, the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve celebrated the birth of its first male onager, marking a historic moment for wildlife conservation in Saudi Arabia. This event is particularly significant as the onager, or Asian wild ass, had been absent from the Arabian Peninsula for over a century. The birth follows a successful rewilding initiative that began with the transportation of onagers from Jordan in April 2024.

The onager's birth is part of a broader effort to reintroduce 23 native species to their historical habitats. With fewer than 600 onagers remaining in the wild, classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, this successful birth is a beacon of hope for the species' future.

The onager's absence from the Arabian Peninsula for over 100 years highlights the critical decline in biodiversity in the region. The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve is strategically partnered with the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature to enhance genetic diversity by introducing new individuals from Jordan. This collaboration is essential for the success of the rewilding initiative, which aims to restore native species to their natural environments.

The timing of this birth is crucial, as it aligns with ongoing global efforts to combat biodiversity loss. The successful rearing of the first onager reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and sets a precedent for future conservation projects in Saudi Arabia.

Looking ahead, the successful birth of the onager signals a promising future for wildlife conservation in Saudi Arabia. Anticipation surrounds the expected birth of two additional onagers this winter, which could further bolster the population. Continued collaboration with conservation organizations will be vital for the success of these initiatives and for enhancing genetic diversity among the species.

As the region progresses with its rewilding efforts, monitoring ongoing conservation activities will be essential. The birth of the onager not only represents a significant achievement but also serves as a catalyst for further species reintroductions in the future.