Dama gazelle

    Today, the species dama gazelle is critically endangered and there are only around 100-200 adult individuals left in the wild.

    Spain’s national research council, CSIC (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas), has played a crucial role in the conservation and ongoing reintroduction of the Mhorr gazelle (Nanger dama mhorr). This subspecies has been extinct in the wild for many years, but there is still hope of saving it and restoring wild populations in Morocco.

    Historical Background and Rescue Effort

    In the 1970s, when the Mhorr gazelle was on the brink of extinction due to hunting and conflicts in Western Sahara, biologist José Antonio Valverde led a rescue operation in which 11 individuals were transported to Spain. These animals became the foundation of a breeding program at the Estación Experimental de Zonas Áridas (EEZA-CSIC) in Almería, which enabled the species to survive in captivity.

    As the population grew, CSIC reached out to zoos within EAZA to continue the breeding efforts — which has led to the subspecies now being found in Kolmården Wildlife Park as well.

    To preserve the species and work toward their return to the wild, we all need to contribute.

    CSIC’s Work with the Reintroduction of the Mhorr Gazelle in Morocco

    CSIC’s efforts to reintroduce the Mhorr gazelle in Morocco have focused on several key areas, in close collaboration with zoos:

    1. Breeding and Genetic Diversity: Through careful breeding efforts, a genetically diverse population has been secured — a crucial factor for the long-term survival of the species.

    2. Release into Protected Areas: Gazelles have been reintroduced into several Moroccan reserves, including Safia and M’Cissi, where they can adapt to natural conditions in a controlled environment. These reintroductions have also provided insights for future steps.

    3. Monitoring and Behavioral Studies: The use of GPS collars and camera traps has enabled detailed monitoring of the gazelles’ movement patterns, behavior, and survival after release.

    4. Collaboration with Local Stakeholders: CSIC works with Moroccan authorities and local organizations to ensure that reintroduction efforts align with local communities and ecosystems.

    Challenges and Future Outlook

    Despite its successes, the project has faced challenges such as predation by dogs and poaching, leading to the loss of some released individuals. To improve survival rates, the need for enhanced protective measures and adapted release strategies has been identified — and the future remains hopeful for the Mhorr gazelle.

    Currently, efforts are underway to secure a third release site, where lessons from earlier challenges are being integrated from the outset.