The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) is sounding the alarm after the tragic discovery of a critically injured Lesser Spotted Eagle during an anti-poaching patrol north of Beirut last week. The juvenile eagle, unable to fly, was rushed to a veterinary clinic where X-rays revealed shotgun pellets lodged in its body and an old fracture in its right wing. Due to the severity of its injuries, the bird had to be euthanised.
This heartbreaking case is far from isolated. During this autumn’s migration season alone, SPNL teams — in collaboration with MESHC Anti-Poaching Unit and supported by international partners including CABS (Committee Against Bird Slaughter) — have documented 265 illegally shot birds of prey across Lebanon’s mountain passes.
“Each bird we find tells the story of an ecological crime,” said SPNL Director General Assad Serhal. “Lebanon lies on one of the world’s most important flyways, yet these magnificent raptors are being shot down in alarming numbers. This senseless killing threatens not only biodiversity but also Lebanon’s international reputation.”
The Lesser Spotted Eagle (Clanga pomarina) is particularly vulnerable in Lebanon. Almost the entire global population — estimated at around 60,000 individuals — passes through the country twice a year during migration. In poor weather conditions, when eagles fly low, hundreds are gunned down. Experts estimate that up to 5% of the global population may be lost annually due to illegal shooting along the eastern Mediterranean flyway.
This small eagle species reproduces slowly and cannot recover quickly from such losses. It reaches breeding maturity only at four to five years of age, and many individuals never live long enough to reproduce. Even in breeding areas across Europe, particularly in Germany where around 130 pairs remain, nests are being abandoned — a sign that many adult birds never return from migration.
SPNL urges Lebanese authorities to strengthen law enforcement, prosecute wildlife crimes, and ensure strict implementation of hunting regulations. The organization also calls upon the public to act responsibly and report poaching incidents to local environmental units.
“The Lesser Spotted Eagle is a symbol of freedom and resilience,” added Serhal. “Protecting it means protecting Lebanon’s natural heritage and fulfilling our moral duty as custodians of this land.”
Through its Homat Al Hima program and anti-poaching partnerships, SPNL continues to lead national and regional efforts to safeguard migratory birds and combat illegal hunting practices.
📸 Photo credit: @cabs_reports
