Nature does not always favour only the fittest though Darwin and Wallace’s theory of evolution says that only the fittest animals and plants will survive.

The less fit, fit and the fittest species or specimens within a species are more like the parts of a pyramid.

The base of the pyramid is full of less fits; the middle tier is occupied by the fit and the topmost layer by the fittest ones. So, for the survival of the fittest, the fit and the less fit are also needed before the fittest can reach their peak. All the stages of development must be related to each other by some genetic linkages.

During a recent trip to Jebel Hafeet, I was scanning the barren hills with my binoculars for any sign of Egyptian vultures, which have a permanent colony there.

This sand and limestone hill is barren with the exception of a few species of sturdy shrubs and herbs, a few grasses and wild capers.

I failed to notice any vultures but saw traces of water dripping from a pipe on the side of a hill. The water possibly came from a nearby government transmitter and radar station.

Many agricultural farms, cattle, camel, goat and sheep farms are located in the desert of the UAE.

In olden days, only the Bedouin used to herd these domesticated animals.

However, with the advent of four-wheel-drive vehicles that allow people to venture into the remotest places, farming has taken a new twist. Many farms have sprung up in remote places.

Neima Pool is a nice name. One feels like visiting it — which is what I did last week.

Recently an environmental bulletin revealed someone had found a group of rare birds in this pool situated in Al Ain.

Last Friday, we drove up to Jebel Hafeet roundabout and took a right turn heading west towards Abu Dhabi. Within 3km we came upon a roundabout and a narrow but long body of water running almost parallel to the road.