The Dalmatian Pelican is a migratory soaring bird that is listed as “vulnerable” as per the IUCN Red-list. It breeds in Eastern Europe and east central Asia, and the current population estimates ranges between 10,000-20,000 individuals. During the 19th and the 20th century, the population of the Dalmatian Pelican has decreased dramatically due to destruction of habitats, illegal shooting, pollution, and collision with power lines. In Lebanon, these birds pass by during the migration seasons in the Fall and Spring, and as per the new hunting law No. 580, it is illegal to hunt Dalmatian Pelican at any point of the year.
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).