In the heart of Mount Lebanon, at the Luc Hoffmann Hima Home Rescue Center in Hima Kayfoun, a magnificent Griffon Vulture enjoys its daily meal, carefully provided by conservationist Zaher Aridi. This vulture’s presence at the center is a testament to the tireless efforts of wildlife rescuers and conservationists working to protect Lebanon’s threatened bird species.
This Griffon Vulture was rescued after suffering severe injuries caused by illegal poaching. It was among several raptors targeted by indiscriminate shooting, a persistent threat to Lebanon’s rich avian biodiversity. Fortunately, the Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) swiftly intervened, ensuring the vulture received immediate medical care and rehabilitation.
The work of the Anti-Poaching Unit extends far beyond a single rescue. Over the past months, the unit has conducted extensive efforts to locate and save birds injured by unlawful hunting practices. Their mission led to the rescue of 18 birds of various species, including: 🦅 Sparrowhawks
🦅 Snake Eagles
🦅 Honey Buzzards
🦅 Harriers
🦅 Booted Eagles
🦅 Common Kestrels
🦅 Griffon Vultures
🦩 Storks, Pelicans, and Cranes
Despite these efforts, the impact of illegal poaching remains devastating. Sadly, 13 of the rescued birds succumbed to fatal injuries, unable to recover from the severe damage inflicted upon them. However, five resilient birds were successfully rehabilitated and released back into their natural habitats, offering a glimmer of hope in the ongoing fight for avian conservation.
The rescue and rehabilitation of these birds underscore the urgent need for stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws, greater community awareness, and a collective effort to end illegal poaching. Each bird saved is a symbol of Lebanon’s natural heritage, a reminder of the delicate balance that conservationists strive to maintain.
At the Luc Hoffmann Hima Home, the Griffon Vulture stands as a beacon of resilience, inspiring further action against illegal hunting and highlighting the critical role of conservation efforts. With continued support and vigilance, Lebanon’s skies can once again be filled with the majestic flight of these remarkable birds, soaring freely as nature intended.
At SPNL, we refused to stay idle. That’s why we transformed the aviary at the Luc Hoffmann Hima Center, Kayfoun, into a Migratory Bird Rescue Center. Originally designed to breed and release the endangered Syrian Serin, the aviary was urgently modified to accommodate large, injured birds like Cranes, Black Kites, and Egyptian Vultures.
With the help of dedicated veterinarians, conservationists, and volunteers, we have provided critical treatment, rehabilitation, and food to these majestic birds. However, to turn this emergency response into a lasting sanctuary, we need your support!
💙 Take Action Today 💙
Your donation will help us equip the rescue center, provide medical care, and ensure these soaring birds can return to the wild. Every contribution counts in the fight to protect and rehabilitate Lebanon’s migratory birds.
🔗 Donate now: https://www.spnl.org/campaigns/equipping-our-migratory-bird-rescue-center/
Let’s continue to raise awareness and safeguard these vital scavengers, ensuring they soar freely once again in our skies! 🙌✨ #SaveOurVultures #HimaConservation #LebanonWildlife #GriffonVulture #StopPoaching #SupportConservation
