Changes in the distribution, abundance and status of Arabian Sand Gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa marica) in Saudi Arabia: A review

Seasonal changes in group size and composition of Arabian sand gazelle Gazella subgutturosa marica Thomas, 1897 during a period of drought in central western Saudi Arabia

“…According to Habibi et al (1993) large herds of G. s. marica were observed in an area with low densities (0.2 animals per km²) in northern Saudi Arabia suggesting that under such conditions they have to form larger herds so as to maximise mating opportunities. The population density established for Mahazat as-Sayd was 0.29-0.31 animal per km² (Cunningham and Wacher, 2009), higher than in the northern protected areas, suggesting good mating opportunities but higher competition due to drought and food shortages. Mixed groups were generally expected to be larger than bachelor or nursery groups and this was also confirmed here.…”

“…Fencing was finalised in 1989 (Chassot et al, 2005) and larger predators such as wolves Canis lupus palipes and feral dogs Canis familiaris were eliminated to protect reintroduced wildlife (Haque and Smith, 1996). Between 1991 and 1994 a total of 164 G. s. marica were reintroduced into the area (Haque and Smith, 1996) and by 2008 653 gazelles were estimated during an aerial survey (Cunningham and Wacher, 2009). …”

“…Observations of group size and composition were conducted as part of an intensive study of the feeding ecology from March 2008until March 2009(Cunningham, 2009). Monthly visits ranging from 5-10 d were made to Mahazat as-Sayd except during June 2008 and January 2009.…”

“…obs.). 3.2 Seasonal changes in group size 3.2.1 Summer The decrease in mean group size (overall, mixed, nursery) and increased observations of single animals during summer, as well as the significant differences in group size between summer and all other seasons, suggest that group size is dependent on available food during summer (Cunningham, 2009). The higher rate of solitary males and females during summer is probably due to the below average rainfall experienced in Mahazat as-Sayd since 2006 (Ul- Islam et al, 2010).…”

“…Mass mortalities occur regularly due to forage shortages in the fenced Mahazat as-Sayd Protected Area (Ul- Islam et al, 2010) making it important to understand this species and improve management. Although Saudi Arabia contains the world's largest population of captive G. s. marica (Dunham et al, 2001), the overall decline of free ranging animals is of concern (Cunningham and Wacher, 2009).…”