Current Status of Breeding Population of Western Osprey in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirate

Western Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) is a resident breeding species in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Osprey breed from December to March on offshore and nearshore islands and coastal sites across the country. Approximately 90% of the breeding population is found in Abu Dhabi Emirate, making it a critical area for conservation efforts. Due to its significance, Western Osprey has been listed as an Endangered (EN) species in the Abu Dhabi Redlist of Species. In 2023, an Emiratewide comprehensive survey was conducted, covering all coastal sites, as well as nearshore and offshore islands in Abu Dhabi. This was the first such comprehensive census of breeding Ospreys in Abu Dhabi. Data were collected using a customized mobile application with a focus on geo-referencing and photographing all nest structures. Of a total of 339 located nests across more than 60 coastal and island territories, 127 were active. Moreover, 44% (n=148) of all nests were observed on artificial platforms intentionally installed at different breeding territories to support nesting. Whereas 39% (n=133) were built naturally on ground and 17% (n=58) were observed on abandoned high-rise structures. The breeding population of osprey in the UAE is estimated to be 110 breeding pairs. The study established that current breeding population of Ospreys in Abu Dhabi Emirate stands at 127 breeding pairs. This stable breeding population of Osprey indicates the overall well-being of UAE’s coastal and marine environments. The Abu Dhabi Environmental Agency continues to monitor and enforce conservation measures to ensure the protection of this regionally important species and its habitats.