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Biodiversity Guardianship

The Egyptian Vulture “Izzy” spent a SAFE night in Lebanon

By SPNL
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On Thursday the 28th of October a joint effort by theĀ  Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BSPB) and the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) marked a great office and fieldwork performance.

Followed by BSPB through satellite monitoring, a young Egyptian Vulture named Izzy spent the night in Lebanon just above Beirut.

Izzy, a young Egyptian vulture, who was born in captivity in theĀ Wildlife Rehabilitation and Breeding CenterĀ in Bulgaria and released throughĀ delayed release method in 2020, flew through Lebanon a few days ago.

Under the watchful eyes of SPNLā€™s field officer and a friend from the area, the sun rose on her and she continued her journey south peacefully. The presence of the field officer was to ensure her safety and for quick intervention in case the worst happened.

Lebanon remains a black spot for migrating birds due to the immense poaching problem.

Special thanks to Volen Arkumarev from (BSPB) and Maher Ousta from (SPNL). We wish Izi a safe flight and soon to reach the wintering grounds in Africa!

IZiā€™s exact location while roosting for the night in Lebanon.

 

SPNLā€™s field officer Maher Ousta was stationed at this area before sunrise.

 

Iziā€™s complete journey through Lebanon as tracked And sent by Volen from BSPB.
At the first morning light Izi flew away due to gunshots nearby. Thankfully the poachers didnā€™t notice her and Maher Ousta from SPNL managed to take a couple of quick pictures of her.

 

 

 

Al Hima Magazine 6th Issue

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The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) has released the sixth issue of Al Hima magazine, focusing on the upcoming IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi (October 8ā€“15, 2025), where SPNL will join four key sessions. The issue features an exclusive interview with IUCN President Razan Al Mubarak, who emphasizes aligning IUCNā€™s work with global biodiversity agendas, governance, member responsiveness, multilateral engagement, ethical use of technology, and amplifying diverse voices.

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The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) is dedicated to conserving biodiversity, promoting sustainable development, and safeguarding Lebanonā€™s natural and cultural heritage. As the national partner of BirdLife International, SPNL embraces the Hima approach, a community-based conservation model that harmonizes nature, people, and culture. Through education, advocacy, and partnerships, we empower communities to protect vital ecosystems and species while ensuring livelihoods and well-being. Join us in our mission to preserve Lebanon's unique environment for future generations. Visit our website or follow us on social media to learn more and support our initiatives. Together, we can make a difference.

Horsh Kayfoun, Luc Hoffmann Hima CenterŲŒ, Itani, Kayfoun, Mount Lebanon