Location: In the hills just east of the town of Jbail, on the coast north of Beirut.

Total area: 150 ha

IBA Criteria met: B1iv

Explanation: There is an estimate annual autumn passage of soaring birds exceeding 3000, including White Pelican, Common Crane, European Honey-buzzard and Levant Sparrowhawk. Number of species observed: 62

Habitat: A steep sided valley mostly covered with dense woodland (Oak, Pine), and Strawberry Tree with some steep cliffs and caves.

Other wildlife interest: Mammals including Wild Boar, Persian Squirrel, Red Fox and Porcupine

Threats: Deliberate persecution of birds, garbage dumping, Loss of habitat/ development, deforestation and Fire in areas of the forest which fall outside the reserve.

Current conservation measures & future plans: Northern side of the valley is protected as the “Bentael Nature Reserve” – hunting and garbage dumping banned, foot access in the nature reserve is limited to designated trails.

 Download BENTAEL NATURE RESERVE HIKING TRAILS (Arabic Leaflet)