A vibrant group of young nature enthusiasts from France, Spain, Canada, and Lebanon came together on Sunday to explore the Anahita Bird Observatory and the surrounding trails of Hima Hammana, in an immersive ecotourism experience organized by Chadi Saad, Manager of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL)’s Hima Hammana Raptor Observatory.
The visit is part of SPNL’s ongoing efforts to engage local and international communities in its mission to conserve nature, birds, and biodiversity by reviving the traditional Hima system — a community-based approach to sustainable land and resource management that has been rooted in the Arab world for over 1,500 years.
While unfavorable weather conditions prevented birdwatching on this particular day, the participants still enjoyed a meaningful journey through Hima Hammana’s scenic trails, learning about the ecological value of the area and the importance of protecting migratory flyways. The group also had the opportunity to walk through the historic alleyways of Hammana, where they discovered the town’s rich cultural heritage and evolving role in Lebanon’s environmental movement.
“Even though we didn’t see any raptors this time, I felt connected to the landscape and the stories behind it. It’s inspiring to see how local communities are leading conservation efforts,” said one of the international participants.
Hima Hammana is a flagship site within SPNL’s national Hima network and a model of community-led conservation and ecotourism. It is strategically located along the African-Eurasian Flyway, a major route for millions of migratory birds, including endangered species such as eagles and vultures.
The Anahita Bird Observatory, named after the ancient goddess of water, fertility, and nature, serves as a hub for bird monitoring, education, and engagement. It reflects SPNL’s holistic approach that ties together conservation, culture, and community development.
SPNL continues to work closely with municipalities, youth groups, and international partners to promote the Hima concept as a tool for peacebuilding, ecological sustainability, and economic resilience. Activities such as these are not only an opportunity to enjoy nature but also to build solidarity and understanding across borders, through shared values of environmental stewardship.
