The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), in partnership with the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) and the Middle Eastern Sustainable Hunting Center (MESHC), is sounding the alarm over a severe and ongoing crisis threatening migratory birds in Terbol, Northern Lebanon—now recognized as one of the most dangerous poaching hotspots along the Eastern Flyway.
Each year, thousands of migratory birds—including globally threatened species such as white storks, eagles, falcons, and other soaring birds—are illegally shot by poachers in the mountainous areas east of Tripoli. This indiscriminate slaughter not only violates Lebanese hunting laws and international conservation agreements, but also jeopardizes the region’s ecological integrity and global efforts to safeguard migratory species.
SPNL on the Frontlines of Conservation
As BirdLife International’s national partner in Lebanon and a pioneer in reviving the Hima system of community-based conservation, SPNL is deeply committed to protecting migratory birds and their habitats. SPNL’s field teams are working tirelessly alongside CABS and MESHC to monitor the situation on the ground, document violations, and collaborate with law enforcement authorities to report illegal hunting activities.
“Lebanon lies at the heart of one of the world’s most important bird migration corridors, and we have a shared responsibility to protect it,” said Assad Serhal, SPNL Director General. “The tragedy unfolding in Terbol is a stark reminder of the urgent need for stronger law enforcement, public awareness, and community engagement to halt this ongoing massacre.”
Community-Based Solutions and National Advocacy
In line with its Hima approach, SPNL is mobilizing local communities, municipalities, and youth to take ownership of their natural heritage and promote sustainable alternatives to destructive practices. SPNL is also actively engaging with the Ministry of Environment, security forces, and civil society partners to advocate for stricter enforcement of hunting regulations and the prosecution of repeat offenders.
This collaborative response seeks not only to stop the immediate threat, but also to build a long-term culture of respect for wildlife across Lebanon. Education campaigns, birdwatching tourism development, and partnerships with responsible hunting associations are all part of SPNL’s comprehensive strategy to protect birds and people alike.
A Call to Action
SPNL calls on national authorities, international organizations, and the general public to support efforts to end illegal bird hunting in Lebanon. The country’s rich biodiversity is a national treasure that must be preserved for future generations. Stronger laws, increased patrolling, and sustained public pressure are essential to turn the tide in Terbol and beyond.
The Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) was established to monitor and prevent illegal practices that threaten birds and wildlife in Lebanon. Through its trained field teams, the unit conducts awareness campaigns, monitors hunting areas, and coordinates with relevant authorities to enforce environmental laws, contributing to the protection of endangered species and the sustainability of ecosystems.
With the support of over 40 volunteers and activists, APU is actively implementing initiatives to combat illegal hunting. These efforts are made possible through the generous backing of the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation and the BioConnect project, funded by the European Union.
APU’s activities are carried out in close collaboration with BirdLife International, in partnership with the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) and the Middle East Sustainable Hunting Center (MESHC). Together, these organizations work to promote sustainable hunting practices, enforce wildlife protection laws, and safeguard Lebanon’s rich biodiversity.
The Anti-Poaching Unit is working closely with the Internal Security Forces of the Ministry of Interior, the Lebanese Army under the Ministry of Defense, as well as forest rangers at the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Environment, federations of municipalities, municipal councils, and municipal police.
📢 Learn more about SPNL’s anti-poaching efforts and how you can get involved:
🔗 SPNL Anti-Poaching Unit
🦅 Join the movement to protect Lebanon’s wildlife! 🌿
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