SPNL Advances Biodiversity Conservation in Tyr Coastal Nature Reserve Under the Bioconnect Project

The Tyr Coastal Nature Reserve (TCNR), a critical site for biodiversity in Lebanon, is witnessing significant conservation advancements under the Bioconnect Project, funded by the European Union. The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) has been leading biodiversity monitoring efforts in TCNR, focusing on protecting key species and habitats, including globally endangered marine turtles, vulnerable plants, and ecologically significant sand dunes.

Key Findings and Conservation Actions

Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta)

The Loggerhead Turtle is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Monitoring efforts by SPNL detected three nests within TCNR, underscoring the site’s importance as a nesting ground for this globally threatened species.

Threats:

• Access to horses in the scientific nesting area.
• Light pollution from touristic areas.
• Uncontrolled access by visitors.

Actions Implemented:

• Construction of a protective fence to secure the nesting area.
• Implementation of environmental best practices in nearby beach huts.
• Awareness campaigns targeting tourists, students, and local communities to promote sustainable tourism.

Impact: The population of Loggerhead Turtles is stabilizing in TCNR, thanks to these targeted interventions under the Bioconnect Project.

Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas)

The Green Turtle, another Endangered species on the IUCN Red List, was also found nesting in TCNR, with three nests identified during monitoring efforts.

Threats:

• Similar to the Loggerhead Turtle, the species faces disturbances from horse access, light pollution, and tourism.

Actions Implemented:

• Habitat protection measures, including fencing and restoration efforts.
• Development of eco-friendly tourism practices to reduce disturbances.
• Educational programs for local communities to highlight the ecological importance of turtles.

Impact: Green Turtle populations in TCNR are showing signs of stabilization due to enhanced conservation measures.

Sea Daffodil (Pancratium maritimum)

This highly ornamental plant, classified as Vulnerable at the national level, thrives in the sandy coastal areas of TCNR. While populations are fairly abundant, they remain under threat from habitat fragmentation and collection by visitors.

Actions Implemented:

• Outreach programs aimed at discouraging the collection of Sea Daffodils by tourists.
• Monitoring efforts to track population health.

Impact: Populations remain stable, with continued efforts to raise awareness and limit disturbances.

Sand Dunes

The sand dunes of TCNR are an ecologically significant geosite that host vulnerable biodiversity. However, urbanization, sand extraction, and erosion continue to degrade these critical habitats.

Future Conservation Priorities:

• Implement restoration projects to stabilize and rebuild degraded dunes.
• Strengthen land-use management to prevent further habitat destruction.

A Collaborative Effort Under Bioconnect

The biodiversity monitoring and conservation efforts in TCNR are part of the broader Bioconnect Project, which aims to expand biodiversity protection and ensure effective management of ecological sites across Lebanon. SPNL’s work in TCNR highlights the importance of targeted interventions to protect threatened species and habitats while engaging local communities in sustainable practices.

Next Steps

SPNL is committed to:

• Strengthening habitat monitoring programs to update population data.
• Expanding community engagement to promote eco-tourism and sustainable practices.
• Enhancing restoration projects to mitigate habitat degradation, particularly in sand dune areas.

By prioritizing conservation measures and increasing visibility for these efforts, SPNL is working to ensure that the Tyr Coastal Nature Reserve remains a vital ecological site for Lebanon’s biodiversity.