By Ahmed Saeed Sulaiman Abdullah
Team:
Ahmed Saeed Suleiman Al-Suqatri
Alexa D. Foster
Roxanne Whelan
On October 4th, we embarked on an extraordinary journey to the towering cliffs of Socotra. It was no ordinary field trip, but a quest to uncover one of nature’s long-held secrets—the mystery of the Jouanin’s Petrel (Bulweria fallax). By sheer luck, we were the ones chosen to unravel this mystery, etching the names of Yemen and Socotra into the annals of global scientific discovery.
The Beginning: A Dream and a Challenge
Our team, driven by self-reliance and a deep reverence for Socotra’s treasures, set out with both excitement and a clear purpose. The terrain we faced was daunting, but our enthusiasm matched the challenge. My personal goal—alongside the team’s mission—was to solve the enigma surrounding the seabirds that return to nest on Socotra every year. Locals spoke of the Persian Shearwater (bishisht in Soqotri), but the precise locations of its nesting sites had eluded scientists for years.
The Moment of Discovery: When Time Stood Still
After several days surveying the eastern cliffs, where we found dozens of Persian Shearwater chicks, we made our way to the western reaches of the island. There, in the stillness of those remote cliffs, something extraordinary happened: we spotted our first Jouanin’s Petrel chick. It wasn’t a moment of triumphant shouts or loud celebrations, but a profound silence that fell over us. We looked at each other, knowing that what we were witnessing had never been documented before. It was a feeling that defies description—a combination of overwhelming responsibility, pride, and deep humility in the face of nature’s grandeur.
We returned from that expedition with more than 70 documented chicks of both species. Each discovery felt like a child we had found—fragile, precious, and full of promise. Knowing we were the first to reveal their secret world made this achievement all the more meaningful.
Why This Discovery Matters
This discovery is far more than a personal milestone or a line on my resume. It stands as a testament to the incredible potential of Socotra’s people and their capacity for groundbreaking scientific work, despite the numerous challenges we face.
It also represents the fulfillment of a deeply personal dream: to protect the heritage of my beloved homeland and bring its wonders back to the global stage—not only for its beauty but also for its scientific significance.
The data we’ve collected lays the foundation for future conservation efforts aimed at preserving this bird and the unique ecosystem of Socotra for generations to come. It’s proof that even in the most remote corners of the world, important discoveries are waiting to be made.
I share this story not to boast, but to inspire. Every great discovery begins with a single step, fueled by passion, determination, and a relentless drive to learn. This achievement was made possible by a dedicated, collaborative team, and it’s a reminder that science is not just about individual success—it’s about working together to unlock the mysteries of our world.
A Call to Action
But our journey doesn’t end here. I invite everyone who reads these words to join in supporting the protection of the Socotra Archipelago. Share this story, because every share is a voice raised in defense of our island’s unique natural heritage. Socotra’s ecosystem is under constant threat, and it’s up to us to ensure that the beauty and biodiversity of this extraordinary place are preserved for future generations.