Birds of U.A.E.

United Arab Emirates12 December 1994Draft

The United Arab Emirates has the greatest diversity of bird species found anywhere in Arabia. Over 390 species occur, and of these over 80 species breed in the country. A number of rare and threatened species can be found; while in contrast, the country s mudflats and lagoons host over 300,000 water birds at anyone time during the peak months August to March. The country sits on one of the busiest migratory crossroad in Asia. Over 320 migrant species have been found, most passing throughout the country in spring and autumn on their long journeys between Siberia, Africa and other areas. Generally, the local authorities in each Emirate is showing great interest in protecting these areas and creating nature reserves. Little Green Bee-eater. (Merops orientalis) This charming U.A.E resident is one of the country s success stories. Its range is expanding as irrigation and landscaping pro- jects provide more food and habitat, particularly in the north and east of the country. The bird is very confiding allowing excellent views showing that the sub-species is the beautiful blue -throated from which occurs only in Arabia. White collared King fisher. (Halcyon cholris) Probably one of the rarest birds in the world, the sub-species which lives on the East Coast, is only 50 birds strong, and its numbers appear to be declining. Souvenir sheet: AED 3. Size: 30 x 40 mm in sheets of 50 stamps.