Publication of the ‘Field Guide to the Mammals of Oman’
The Diwan of Royal Court announced the publication of the ‘Field Guide to the Mammals of Oman’, a landmark scientific reference that, for the first time, documents both the terrestrial and marine mammals of the Sultanate in a single comprehensive volume. The book is authored by Dr. Andrew Spalton, Dr. Hadi Al Hikmani, Gareth Whittington-Jones, and Robert Baldwin, and was published jointly by the Diwan of Royal Court and Nomad Publishing.
The guide provides detailed descriptions of Oman’s 60 terrestrial and 20 marine wild mammal species: from the White-toothed pygmy shrew, one of the world’s smallest mammals weighing less than 5 grams, to the Blue Whale, the world’s largest mammal weighing 150,000 kilograms. Some species such as the iconic Arabian Leopard and Humpback Whale are well known while others, including many of the 24 species of bat are described here for the first time. In addition to the 80 species of wild mammal there are two vagrant species of bat, four introduced rodent species and eight species that are domestic and / or feral.
Descriptions of each mammal species are accompanied by photographs, illustrations, and distribution maps. Each entry highlights the species’ geographic range, natural habitats, reproduction, and behavioural traits, along with practical guidance for identifying field signs such as tracks, feeding remains, and droppings.
The book also includes descriptions of Oman’s different ecoregions from the towering Al Hajar mountains in the north to the great sand-seas of the interior and the verdant monsoon Dhofar Mountains in the south. Within these ecoregions are found 30 protected areas that provide safe havens for Oman’s diverse mammal communities. For example, Wadi As Sirrin Nature Reserve is home to the Arabian Tahr and at least 13 other species of wild mammal. Offshore at least six species of whale and dolphin visit the seas of the Dimaniyyat Islands Nature Reserve while in the south Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve hosts 27 species of mammal, more than any other protected area, including the elusive Arabian Leopard.
Published in Arabic and English editions the book is designed for both specialists and the wider public and serves as a practical tool for identifying, studying and enjoying mammals through direct observation and field evidence.
Commenting on the release, Dr. Andrew Spalton said that the guide “captures decades of fieldwork in Oman and translates that knowledge into a resource that bridges science and practice.” Dr. Hadi Al Hikmani explained that the volume “consolidates critical information on description, distribution, ecology, and reproduction into a single accessible reference, in support of national conservation efforts.” Gareth Whittington-Jones noted that “the guide is designed to be clear and user-friendly while maintaining scientific rigor,” and Robert Baldwin emphasized that “the inclusion of both terrestrial and marine mammals provides readers with a complete picture of Oman’s mammal diversity.”
The Diwan of Royal Court affirmed that the publication of the guide reflects Oman’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and strengthening scientific knowledge of the country’s biodiversity. The book is expected to play a pivotal role in supporting wildlife research and management, contributing to the protection of all wild species, and fostering greater public awareness of the Sultanate’s rich wildlife.