Notes on the status and conservation of the reem gazelle Gazella subgutturosa marica in the Sultanate of Oman

Abstract

The status of the reem gazelle in Oman is uncertain. We collected all recent data available, and carried out surveys to assess the feasibility of a conservation project in Oman. Despite a previous survey in 1986, data regarding the population density and the group size were not available. In 2000 we carried out a 2‐day survey (line transect by car) in the central sand desert of Oman, covering 128 km for a total sampled area of 62 km2. Three herds and one lone individual were sighted and approached by car, whilst the tracks of four others were found. In total we recorded 78 gazelles (estimated density 1.26 ind/km2); 44 were sighted and 34 were tracked. Group size ranged from 4 to 20 ind/herd, with a mean of 14 ind/herd±2 SD. Evidence of gazelle poaching was detected twice during this survey and more evidence was collected in 2005, suggesting that illegal killing and live capture is a common problem. A conservation strategy was suggested with increasing severity of management options.