Sharjah: The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah has announced its role as host for the mid-year meeting of the Small Mammal Taxon Advisory Group (TAG), part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).
According to Emirates News Agency, the event is organized in collaboration with the EPAA through the Arabia's Wildlife Centre, a leading institution in the region specializing in breeding and protecting endangered species. This collaboration underscores EPAA's dedication to fostering international cooperation and advancing efforts in environmental conservation and biodiversity protection.
Scheduled from May 5th to 9th, 2025, the meeting will take place at the "Sharjah Seed Bank and Herbarium" in Al Dhaid City. The scientific program features specialized research presentations, sharing of institutional experiences, and interactive sessions aimed at developing strategies for the protection and environmental management of small mammal species, both in their natural habitats (in-situ) and within protected environments and specialized centers (ex-situ).
This significant scientific platform will gather a select group of scientists, experts, and practitioners dedicated to small mammal conservation, research, and husbandry from Europe and the Middle East. The participants will engage in discussions on key challenges and opportunities in this field and work on enhancing collaboration tools among environmental institutions involved in these efforts.
Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah, highlighted the importance of hosting this specialized meeting, regarded as one of the key environmental scientific events in Europe and the Middle East. She noted that hosting this event aligns with Sharjah's ongoing commitment, guided by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, to support global biodiversity conservation and foster scientific and knowledge exchange with leading international institutions.
The opening session included a formal welcome to participants and an overview of Sharjah's role in supporting biodiversity conservation through various projects, centers, and scientific initiatives, positioning the emirate as a leader in environmental and wildlife support in the region.
The meeting's program also features field visits to the Arabia's Wildlife Centre, offering participants a chance to explore modern veterinary care systems, breeding methods, small species management techniques, and successful experiences in reintroducing certain species into their natural habitats. Additionally, coordination sessions, workshops, and joint planning among member institutions are included, focusing on identifying priorities for future phases, expanding work within European Endangered Species Programmes (EEP), and exchanging data and expertise on breeding, animal behavior, and genetic line management.
Participants expressed their gratitude for the warm welcome, professional organization, and high-quality scientific facilities provided by Sharjah, praising the authority's leading role in the region and its comprehensive approach that integrates protection, education, scientific research, and institutional communication.