Before the last wild oryx was killed in 1972, the countries in the region had launched initiatives in partnership with Western zoos and local reserves to protect the species from the looming danger of extinction. The first reintroductions into the wild in the 80s were rapidly successful. The species bred and its numbers increased. The oryx came to illustrate the feasibility of conserving and reintroducing an endangered species. The animal was saved. However, the elation was short-lived. Poaching again began to decimate the antelope. By the start of the year 2000, in a rare twist, the species was judged endangered for the second time! Once more, a broad alliance of partners had to join forces to protect it from this new threat.