Photography by Chadi Saad, SPNL Homat Al Hima Activist and Manager of Hima Hammana Raptor Counting Site
In the heart of Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, the Ammiq Wetland stands as a beacon of conservation, teeming with biodiversity and offering refuge to countless bird species. Among these, the Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) has emerged as an emblem of resilience and grace. Captured through the lens of Chadi Saad, a passionate SPNL Homat Al Hima activist and manager of the Hima Hammana Raptor Counting Site, the presence of the Little Egret in Ammiq tells a compelling story of nature’s adaptability and the significance of wetland conservation.
A Story of Survival and Recovery
The Little Egret is a small, elegant heron distinguished by its pristine white plumage, long black bill, and striking black legs with yellow feet. During the breeding season, adult egrets develop two long decorative plumes on their backs and additional feathery adornments on their neck and chest. These stunning features once made them targets of the plume trade, where they were hunted extensively for their feathers, which were highly valued in the fashion industry of the 19th century. Overexploitation led to a severe decline in their numbers, pushing them to the brink of extinction.
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However, with the establishment of protective regulations and conservation initiatives, populations of the Little Egret have rebounded, and they are now a common sight in wetlands across the world. Today, their presence in Ammiq is a testament to the importance of preserving natural habitats and enforcing policies against illegal poaching.
A Glimpse Into the World of the Little Egret – Through the Lens of Chadi Saad
Chadi Saad’s photography offers an intimate look at the life cycle of the Little Egret, portraying the bird’s delicate beauty and fascinating behaviors in the Ammiq Wetland. His collection features:
- A striking male Little Egret spreading his delicate breeding plumage to attract a mate, a moment of pure elegance and natural display.
- A close-up of an Egret during the breeding season, with its beak and eye-ring transformed into a distinctive shade of blue, a characteristic unique to this period.
- A juvenile Egret, just over a month old, already showing the signs of growth and independence.
- A heartwarming series capturing chicks less than a month old, nestled safely in their nest, still dependent on their parents for warmth and food.
Through these images, Saad not only showcases the elegance of the species but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts that ensure the survival of the Little Egret in Lebanon and beyond.
Ammiq Wetland: A Haven for Wildlife
Ammiq Wetland, the largest remaining freshwater wetland in Lebanon, serves as a critical habitat for resident and migratory birds. It provides essential feeding, breeding, and resting grounds for over 250 bird species, including globally threatened species such as the Imperial Eagle and the Ferruginous Duck.
The Little Egret thrives in these wetlands, benefiting from the abundance of small fish, amphibians, and invertebrates found in the shallow waters. With their exceptional hunting techniques, they either gracefully stalk prey in the reeds or use their distinctive foot-trembling method, stirring up the water to flush out fish. This remarkable adaptability has enabled the species to expand its range, even reaching new territories in Europe and the Middle East.
A Journey from Hunting to Conservation
Chadi Saad’s journey from hunter to conservationist mirrors the transformation of Lebanon’s approach to wildlife preservation. Growing up in a culture where hunting was a common practice, Saad initially engaged in hunting birds but later experienced a profound shift in perspective after connecting with international birdwatchers and scientists.
Inspired by his encounters, he dedicated himself to photographing birds, raising awareness about illegal hunting, and working on conservation projects. As the manager of the Hima Hammana Raptor Counting Site, Saad plays a crucial role in monitoring migratory raptors, documenting population trends, and advocating for the protection of Lebanon’s natural heritage.
Parallels with Global Conservation Efforts
The story of the Little Egret in Lebanon reflects similar conservation successes in other parts of the world. In the Great Ouse Valley in the UK, for instance, Little Egrets were once rare visitors but have now become regular inhabitants of British wetlands. Experts attribute this expansion to climate shifts and effective conservation policies that have allowed the species to flourish.
Similarly, in Lebanon, the work of SPNL, Homat Al Hima activists, and nature reserves like Ammiq Wetland has created safer environments for wetland birds, ensuring that species like the Little Egret continue to thrive.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its recovery, the Little Egret still faces numerous threats, including:
- Habitat destruction due to urban expansion
- Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial waste
- Disturbance from human activities in nesting sites
- The persistent illegal bird trade
To ensure the long-term survival of wetland birds like the Little Egret, conservationists emphasize the need for stronger legislation, increased public awareness, and community engagement.
Call to Action: Protecting Lebanon’s Wetlands
As Lebanon faces ongoing environmental challenges, the conservation of Ammiq Wetland and other natural reserves must remain a top priority. Organizations like SPNL and Homat Al Hima are working tirelessly to preserve these critical ecosystems, but public support is essential.
Chadi Saad and other conservationists urge the Lebanese community, government authorities, and international partners to:
- Strengthen laws against illegal hunting and habitat destruction.
- Support conservation projects and ecotourism initiatives.
- **Promote responsible wildlife
