Location: North-west of the town of Zahle, on the southern flanks of Mount Sannine in the Mount Lebanon Range.
Total area: 244 ha
IBA Criteria met: A3
A4 iv
Explanation: A3 At least six biome-restricted species breed on site – Black-eared Wheatear, Sardinian Warbler, Spectacled Warbler, Cretzchmar’s Bunting, Black-headed Bunting and Western Rock Nuthatch. A4iv Records during both spring and autumn in 2004 and 2005 indicate that more than 20,000 soaring birds pass over the site annually.
Number of species observed: 64
Habitat: It has mountain slopes and rocky valleys, snow lies from middle mountains and upwards until May, dry from May till October. Characterized by scrubby bushes and trees, up to 60% bare earth and stones, with occasional rock outcrops
Threats: Hunting especially during autumn migration season, overgrazing/over browsing, extraction industry, habitat degradation from 4 Wheel Drive vehicles, proposed tourism, a ski resort is proposed at the site.
Current conservation measures & future plans: much of the mountain is protected from hunting and grazing, some trees have been planted by the Rim water company that owns most of the site. Proposed conservation measures; discussions are still at an early stage with the Rim estate management.
