A Rare Visitor: Griffon Vulture at Hammana Bird Observatory 🦅📸

Since 2019, the Hammana Bird Observatory in Lebanon has documented 11 solitary passages of the Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus), with photographic evidence captured on five occasions. Observations indicate that these majestic birds were spotted three times during autumn migrations and eight times in the spring. These sightings, videographed by Chadi Saad, SPNL Homat Al Hima Activist and Manager of the Hima Hammana Raptor Counting Site, underscore the significance of the region in the migratory patterns of this species.

 

The Griffon Vulture: An Overview

The Griffon Vulture is a large Old World vulture, recognized for its impressive wingspan and soaring flight. It predominantly inhabits mountainous regions, nesting on crags and cliffs. As a scavenger, it plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by feeding on carrion, thus preventing the spread of diseases.

Distribution and Population

Approximately 10% of the global range of the Griffon Vulture falls within Europe, leading to a preliminary global population estimate of 696,000-894,000 individuals. In Europe, the species is listed as Least Concern on the European Red List, indicating a stable population trend.

Conservation Status

While the Griffon Vulture maintains a stable population in parts of its range, it faces threats in certain regions. In North Africa, for instance, the species has experienced declines due to factors such as poisoning and habitat loss. Conservation efforts, including monitoring and protection of nesting sites, are essential to ensure the continued stability of their populations.

Significance of Hammana Bird Observatory Sightings

The repeated sightings of solitary Griffon Vultures at the Hammana Bird Observatory highlight the importance of this area as a migratory corridor. These observations contribute valuable data to understanding the species’ migratory behaviors and regional population dynamics. Continuous monitoring and documentation are vital for informing conservation strategies and ensuring the protection of these magnificent birds during their migrations.

In conclusion, the Griffon Vulture’s presence in Lebanon, as evidenced by the Hammana Bird Observatory’s records, underscores the country’s role in the broader migratory landscape of this species. Ongoing conservation efforts and habitat protection are crucial to support the continued survival and prosperity of the Griffon Vulture across its range.

How You Can Help

  1. 💰 Donate Now – Your financial contribution helps fund training, workshops, and conservation efforts that empower local communities to protect nature. Every donation makes a difference!
    👉 Donate Now

  2. 🤝 Volunteer Your Time and Skills – Get involved in hands-on conservation work, help organize awareness campaigns, or support SPNL’s initiatives with your expertise.

👉 Volunteer Now

  1. 📢 Spread the Word – Share the mission of Homat Al Hima on social media, within your network, and among conservation-minded communities.

  2. 🌿 Support Other SPNL Campaigns – Explore additional conservation projects such as adopting a Hima village or supporting educational programs like School with No Walls (SNOW).

Your support ensures that majestic birds like the Griffon Vulture continue to soar over Lebanon’s skies, and that communities remain engaged in protecting their natural heritage.

🔗 Act Now: Donate Here

Al Hima Magazine 5th Issue

This edition of Al Hima magazine weaves together inspiring stories of nature conservation and community resilience, highlighting how Lebanon is being stitched back to life—one Hima at a time. The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) continues its mission to preserve the country’s natural heritage by empowering local communities. A cornerstone of this effort is the BioConnect project, funded by the European Union, which has achieved three national firsts: Lebanon’s first natural park (Upper Matn), first geological park (Shouf-Jezzine), and first endowment Hima (Btekhnay).

Read Previous issues

spot_img
spot_img

More like this

SPNL Commends National Geographic Arabia’s May 2025 Issue for...

The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) applauds National Geographic Arabia for its continued...

Nature Is Calling, and Hima Is Answering: Lebanon’s Community-Led...

On the occasion of World Bee Day and the International Day for Biological Diversity, the Society for...

Green Hills School and SPNL Join Forces for Environmental...

As part of its ongoing efforts to promote nature-based learning and community conservation, the Society for the...