Erin Hunter
Although a bustling, modern metropolis Abu Dhabi is home to some of the Emirate's most coveted desert wildlife. From endangered Arabian leopards to Caracals here are its most exotic desert dwellers.
Although it takes the likeness of a smaller guinea pig the Rock Hyrax is biologically akin to mantees or elephants in spite of its minute size. Tailless and the ash and brown hued creature is also known as a Dassie. Recognized by a unique patch that is visible on its back that may be orange, black or yellow in color.
Instantly recognized by its large protruding ears the Blanford's fox is an attractive dessert animal that boasts an elegant fur coat with grey, brown or black overtones. The stomach and neck area of the creature is white while a striking black line runs from the neck to the middle of the back of the animal which is also known for its white or black tipped bushy tail.
Although this majestic mammal was on the brink of extinction the species can now be seen roaming the Arabian Peninsula as in centuries before. With a unique biological make up built to withstand the harsh climatic conditions f the desert the creature's white fur and its striking horns make it a veritable icon of the landscape.
As a bird species that lives in large colonies the Socotra Cormorant breeding grounds are limited to the shores of the Arabian Sea and islands occupying the Arabian Gulf. Large and imposing with its black features the creature also dubbed the Socotra shag is endemic to Arabian Peninsula as well as the Persian Gulf. Visitors hoping to spot the creature and other magnificent desert birdlife should stay at the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara or other well-situated Abu Dhabi Beach hotels to witness local wildlife.
Renowned for its orange hued coat and striking appearance the Caracal is a graceful predator prowling the Arabian Peninsula. Famed for its speed and flexibility the attractive mammal is capable of killing pray three times its own weight. Known to leap across great distances the natural hunters are able to capture its prey which includes antelopes and rabbits thanks to its speed high flying abilities.
Earning its curious name thanks in part to the noticeable swelling on its throat which resembles a goiter the graceful gazelle is a unique wildlife specimen found in the desert landscapes of Abu Dhabi. The males of the species boast large black horns that reach upwards while the female gazelle has no antlers to speak of. The enlarged throat region comes in handy during breeding season when the males bellow in loud tones to woo females.
In spite of its adorable appearance and affectionate name the Honey Badger is a ferocious desert dweller renowned for its hunting skills. Boasting unique and distinctive marking the coarse coat of the brown and black hued creature features white and grey parches known as the mantle which occupies the area from the crown to the end of its tail.
In spite of its size the in born agility and power of the Arabian Tahr is well documented. Known for its strong build the shaggy coated creature also sports a thick mane and large horns.
