In a powerful display of collaboration and conservation, a majestic Golden Eagle has been successfully released back into the wild in the Shouf Biosphere Reserve. This landmark event was led by the Anti-Poaching Unit (APU), in partnership with the Lebanese Ministry of Agriculture, the Shouf Biosphere Reserve, and local stakeholders.
More than just the release of a single bird, the moment marked a new chapter in Lebanon’s fight against wildlife crime and a concrete step forward in the country’s commitment to protecting its rich, yet vulnerable, biodiversity.
The eagle, a symbol of strength and freedom, was rescued from illegal captivity in the coastal town of Jal El Dib. Held in violation of Lebanese environmental laws and international conventions on wildlife protection, the bird had been suffering the physical and psychological consequences of confinement. Following its rescue, the eagle was placed under the care of wildlife experts and veterinarians who provided both medical treatment and behavioral rehabilitation to ensure it would be capable of surviving independently in the wild. Its recovery journey was carefully monitored to ensure the bird regained its strength, natural instincts, and ability to soar once again in its rightful habitat.
What makes this release particularly significant is that it represents the first tangible field-level cooperation between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two parties. This MoU aims to enhance collaboration in monitoring, reporting, and combating illegal hunting and wildlife trafficking in Lebanon. Through this agreement, SPNL and the Ministry are uniting their efforts to protect native species and enforce the nation’s environmental laws with greater effectiveness. SPNL also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) to formalizes cooperation between the two organizations.
The Shouf Biosphere Reserve, where the eagle was released, is one of the largest and most ecologically diverse protected areas in Lebanon. A UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve, the Shouf region is home to vital ecosystems that support a wide variety of flora and fauna, including birds of prey like the Golden Eagle. The area’s unique topography and conservation status make it an ideal release site, offering the eagle both protection and an abundant food supply.
“The return of this Golden Eagle to the skies of Lebanon is not just a victory for wildlife, but a testament to what can be achieved through coordinated action and deep-rooted commitment to nature,” said Adonis Khatib from SPNL. “It is also a call to all of us to remain vigilant, report violations, and support the work of conservation organizations and authorities working to protect our natural heritage.”
The successful release of the Golden Eagle also sends a message of hope. In a region where political and environmental challenges are many, such actions highlight the importance of resilience, collaboration, and science-based conservation. Every rehabilitated and released animal stands as a living symbol of what is possible when people come together to protect the natural world.
As Lebanon continues to face growing environmental pressures—from climate change to habitat fragmentation—initiatives like this are vital. They remind us that despite the challenges, restoration and recovery are achievable. They also underscore the importance of public engagement, government accountability, and the role of civil society organizations in driving environmental progress.
This is more than a single event. It is part of a larger movement to restore Lebanon’s ecological balance, build community ownership of conservation efforts, and reaffirm the value of every living creature. From Jal El Dib to the Shouf Mountains, the journey of this Golden Eagle is a compelling story of resilience, care, and the power of second chances.
About the Anti-Poaching Unit
The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) established the Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) in partnership with the international Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) and the Middle East Sustainable Hunting Center (MESHC).
The unit aims to monitor and prevent illegal practices that threaten birds and wildlife in Lebanon. With trained field teams, the unit conducts awareness campaigns, monitors hunting areas, and coordinates with authorities to enforce environmental laws, contributing to the protection of endangered species and the sustainability of ecosystems.
Supported by more than 40 volunteers and environmental activists, the unit carries out multiple initiatives to combat poaching. Its success is bolstered by generous support from the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, the EU-funded BioConnect Project, and its partnership with BirdLife International.
The unit operates within a national environmental alliance involving Internal Security Forces, the Lebanese Army under the Ministry of Defense, forest rangers from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Environment, municipal federations, local councils, and municipal police. Together, they work to promote sustainable hunting practices, enforce wildlife protection laws, and safeguard Lebanon’s rich biodiversity.
