saudibirding

The Mourning and Arabian Wheatears present one of Arabia’s most challenging ID problems. Subtle plumage differences, overlapping ranges, and shifting taxonomy mean misidentifications have been common, especially in southern Oman and southwest Saudi Arabia. This guide highlights key field marks, habitat preferences, and behavior to help birders separate the two and contribute valuable records to clarify their true status.

Saudi Arabia is the only country on the Arabian Peninsula where you can see all of the Arabian endemics—from Philby’s Partridge and Asir Magpie to Arabian Woodpecker and Yemen Serin—plus regional specialties and near-endemics like White-eyed Gull, Arabian Lark, and Arabian Golden Sparrow. Not just deserts, Saudi boasts dramatic mountains, wooded canyons, and productive wetlands. Add warm hospitality and rich culture, and Saudi is the Middle East’s top birding destination.

Contents Arranging an eVisa When to Visit Avian Specialties by Region The Eastern Region The Central Regions The Northwestern...