Arabian Oryx - Al Maha (Oryx leucoryx)
The Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx, known locally in Arabic as Al Maha / المها العربي) is an iconic desert antelope native to the gravel plains and arid deserts of the Arabian Peninsula. Recognized by its luminous white coat, contrasting dark facial mask and leg markings, and long, straight, ribbed horns, the species is renowned for its remarkable physiological adaptations to extreme heat and water scarcity. Having been hunted to near-extinction in the wild by the early 1970s, the Arabian Oryx became the primary flagship species for captive breeding and regional reintroduction programs spearheaded by Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve (محمية العرين).
Issued as part of the 1980 wildlife definitive set, this 100 fils stamp depicts two Arabian Oryx standing alert against an arid backdrop of desert scrub and sunlit hills under a bright blue sky. The issue commemorates Bahrain's central role in the international conservation effort ("Operation Oryx"), celebrating the preservation of a revered animal that features prominently in classical Arabic poetry and regional cultural heritage.
Issued as part of the 1980 wildlife definitive set, this 100 fils stamp depicts two Arabian Oryx standing alert against an arid backdrop of desert scrub and sunlit hills under a bright blue sky. The issue commemorates Bahrain's central role in the international conservation effort ("Operation Oryx"), celebrating the preservation of a revered animal that features prominently in classical Arabic poetry and regional cultural heritage.