محمية الخويسات (الجهراء) الطبيعية

Al-Khuwaisat (Al-Jahra) Natural Reserve

An existing reserve since 1987, under the supervision of the Environment Public Authority, with an area of 18 km2, which was declared accordance to Decision of the Supreme Council for the Environment No. 7/2016. The purpose of its establishment is to provide a sanctuary for both endemic and migratory birds and to Protect the environment and its biodiversity. The reserve consists of a network of ponds formed by the flowing water from the city of Jahra through the sandy sabkhas in the far west from Kuwait Bay, surrounded by reed beds. Ponds are permanent and change in size due to seasonal fluctuations. Water is supplied to the main pond using triple treated water through a dedicated network to supply the pond in a more sustainable and efficient manner. Other related ponds were expanded and organized, and main roads were paved in the reserve, in coordination with the Kuwait Oil Company. The reserve contains a rich and integrated ecosystem, where perennial salt-tolerant plant populations thrive in areas close to the sea. The area also contains well-known afforestation trees such as Athal and Willow. The plants of the reserve are divided into perennials such as reed, olein, tarka, meadow, and thuluth, and seasonal plants such as sorrel, Nuer, Alman, scallop, baking, and others. At least 250 bird species have been recorded at the site. The reserve includes many migratory and endemic wading birds, as well as sea birds and some wild birds. The location is also important for the migration of birds of prey. Two types of fish were also found in the reserve's pond, in addition to a number of amphibians (frogs). And there are also reptiles (lizards) and insects in the reserve.