Photography by Chadi Saad, SPNL Homat Al Hima Activist and Manager of Hima Hammana Raptor Counting Site
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Hammana, a unique and vibrant avian story unfolds each year. The Eurasian Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), also known as the Grasshopper Hawk, returns annually to nest in the region, reaffirming its deep-rooted connection with Lebanon’s natural heritage.
Take Action: Help Protect These Eagles and Their Habitat
Conservation efforts like Homat Al Hima rely on community support to safeguard these birds and their environment. You can make a difference by contributing to SPNL’s conservation initiatives.
🌿 Donate today and support the protection of Hammana’s Widlife:
👉 Support Homat Al Hima
Every donation helps preserve Lebanon’s natural heritage, ensuring that future generations can witness the beauty of these incredible raptors in the wild.
A Sanctuary for Kestrels
Hima Hammana has become a vital refuge for these magnificent raptors, offering them safe nesting sites among rock crevices on cliffs and beneath the tiles of quiet or abandoned houses. The presence of these birds in the region is a testament to the success of conservation efforts and the delicate balance between nature and human stewardship.
Record-Breaking Year: 2024
In 2024, Hammana witnessed one of the most significant kestrel breeding seasons recorded. Within the Hima Hammana and its immediate surroundings, six nests were identified, sheltering 21 chicks and 13 adult kestrels. This marks one of the most fruitful years for kestrel reproduction in the area, further highlighting the importance of protected habitats for these birds.
A Growing Resident Population
Beyond the breeding season, kestrels have found a permanent home in Hima Hammana. Currently, eight kestrels are residing in the area throughout the year, adding to the region’s dynamic bird population. Their presence provides invaluable opportunities for raptor monitoring, scientific studies, and ecotourism, bringing attention to Lebanon’s rich biodiversity.
Capturing the Essence of Conservation
This remarkable documentation of kestrel nesting and residency has been meticulously captured by Chadi Saad, an SPNL Homat Al Hima Activist and the Manager of the Hima Hammana Raptor Counting Site. Through his lens, he showcases the beauty, resilience, and significance of these raptors, inspiring conservation efforts and a deeper appreciation for Lebanon’s avian wonders.
Protecting Lebanon’s Raptors
As kestrel populations thrive in Hammana, ongoing conservation efforts remain essential. Protecting their nesting sites, reducing human-induced threats, and raising awareness about raptor conservation are key to ensuring their continued presence in the Lebanese skies.
The Eurasian kestrels of Hima Hammana are not just birds; they are guardians of the sky, symbols of resilience, and indicators of the health of Lebanon’s ecosystems. Their story is one of survival, adaptation, and the power of conservation—a testament to what can be achieved when humans and nature coexist in harmony.
