Dubai Municipality to set up nests for the osprey

Dubai — Dubai Municipality will mark World Migratory Bird Day today, by setting up nests for the osprey at the Ras Al Khor Wild Life Sanctuary.

The osprey is a large raptor reaching more than 60cm in length and 180cm across the wings. It is brown on the upperparts and predominantly greyish on the head and underparts.

The day will be marked with the launching of a three-day campaign to raise awareness about the perils and dangers to migratory birds.

The campaign will also spotlight on the importance of spreading migratory birds-friendly energy technologies as well as correcting the adverse impacts on such and their habitats, said engineer Alia Al Harmoodi, director of environment department at Dubai Municipality.

“The purpose of celebrating the day is to focus on the increasing need for protecting such species and their natural habitats, and call to the nations of the world to cooperate to shield them and identify and encourage the public to partake in such environmental occasions,” she said.

“A seminar will be held at the falconry centre at Nad Al Shiba on Monday”, she said, adding it is being organised jointly by the marine environment, wildlife section and the environmental awareness section.

Al Harmoodi said the partners who include local associations, government entities, individuals and local press concerned about preserving the birds and their habitats will be honoured.

Wild birds will also be released from Al Marmoom Wild life sanctuary.

reporters@khaleejtimes.com