Exploring New Frontiers: Our Scientific Field Station in the Dhofar Mountains of Oman
An Erebidae moth discovered on an expedition to Dhofar
We’re excited to announce the foundations of our field station from where we will conduct the Dhofar Biodiversity Monitoring Program, an ambitious wildlife research program in the stunning Dhofar mountains. This rugged and biologically rich region, stretching across three mountain ranges, holds some of Arabia’s most unique and diverse ecosystems - and our field station will play a vital role in uncovering their secrets.
Dhofar’s mountains are a haven for wildlife, comprising habitats ranging from lush cloud forests to vast savannas and dramatic coastal cliffs. Despite their ecological importance, many parts of these mountains remain underexplored and understudied. We aim to change that by establishing a mobile field station that moves yearly between the mountain ranges, ensuring continuous and focused research across the region.
An Arabian sunbird Cinnyris hellmayri drinking nectar from an apple of Sodom Calotropis procera flower, Dhofar
At this stage, our field station is still in its infancy. We are carefully planning logistics, securing partnerships, and assembling a team of dedicated volunteers and researchers passionate about biodiversity conservation. Each year, the station will relocate to a different mountain range, enabling us to build long-term datasets on wildlife populations and ecosystem health for each mountain range.
One of the most exciting aspects of this project is its collaborative nature. We will rely heavily on volunteers to help collect data, from camera trap and bioacoustic monitoring to targeted species surveys. This approach not only enriches our research but also builds a community of conservation advocates who care deeply about protecting Dhofar’s natural heritage.
Though the field station is new, we’re excited about its potential impact. The data gathered will provide critical insights for conservation strategies and help government agencies make informed decisions to protect these fragile ecosystems. We invite you to follow our journey as we explore, learn, and contribute to preserving the incredible biodiversity of the Dhofar mountains.