Egyptian Nightjar breeding confirmed for first time at King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve

RIYADH — A nesting and breeding event of the Egyptian Nightjar — known locally as Mullahi Al-Ru'yan — has been confirmed for the first time within the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve. The King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority has recorded a new scientific and environmental achievement, adding to Saudi Arabia's wildlife conservation efforts after a peer-reviewed scientific paper was accepted for publication in the international journal Applied Ecology and Environmental Research, published by ALÖKI Kft in Budapest. Despite being listed as Least Concern (LC) on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, the Egyptian Nightjar is a rare, nocturnal desert bird that is difficult to observe. The study was based on detailed field monitoring conducted at Umm Al-Dhiyabah, one of the reserve's unique seasonal wetland habitats. During the survey, environmental teams observed two eggs laid directly on the ground without a conventional nest, a behavior characteristic of the species. **media[2747293]** On April 15, 2025, about a week after the initial observation, eggshell remains were documented at the site, confirming the successful hatching of the chicks. Monitoring teams continued to record repeated sightings of the Egyptian Nightjar at multiple locations across the reserve from mid-October onward, indicating the species' continued use of the habitat and its ability to adapt to local environmental conditions during specific seasons. The study marks a significant scientific milestone by elevating the Egyptian Nightjar's record in Saudi Arabia from evidence of occasional presence and possible nesting to confirmed successful breeding, contributing to a better understanding of the species' breeding range across the Arabian Peninsula. The achievement reflects the growing role of the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve as an integrated ecosystem encompassing diverse habitats and seasonal wetlands that support specialized desert species. The findings also highlight the importance of continuing long-term environmental monitoring programs and expanding nighttime surveys to deepen understanding of rare species and support biodiversity conservation.