Location: In the Shouf region of the Mount Lebanon range, south of the towns of Saoufar and Bhamdoun, and about 17km south-east of Beirut. The River Safa runs through the valley. Total area: 928 ha
IBA Criteria met: B1iv
Explanation: There is an estimate annual autumn passage of birds of prey exceeding 3000, including Levant Sparrowhawk, Common Buzzard, 183 Lesser-spotted Eagle, and over 680 White Storks. There are four biome-restricted species for which breeding is confirmed at Ramlieh; Black-eared Wheatear, Sardinian Warbler and Masked Shrike, from the Mediterranean Biome, and Western Rock Nuthatch, from the Irano-Turanian Biome.
Number of species observed: 47
Habitat: A wide valley (the valley of the River Safa, which becomes the Damour River closer to the coast) containing Pine woodland, terraced orchards, low scrub and some bare rocky cliffs. The village of Ramlieh falls entirely within the site.
Other wildlife interest: Many butterflies, reptiles and amphibians, as well as mammals including Red Fox
Threats: Fire, over-grazing in more open areas, uncontrolled quarrying, hunting, urban development
Current conservation measures & future plans: Currently unprotected although the Association for Forest, Development and Conservation have carried out various community based projects aimed at the conservation and restoration of the natural habitats in the area, and are also encouraging the development of eco-tourism in the area.
