White Storks Grace the Skies of Lebanon – A Migration Marvel in Deir El Ahmar!

Every year, millions of migratory birds embark on an extraordinary journey across continents, navigating thousands of kilometers in search of warmer climates. Among them, the White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) stands as a symbol of endurance and grace. This week, SPNL’s anti-poaching team captured a breathtaking moment—a flock of White Storks resting in the agricultural lands of Deir El Ahmar during their long migration.

Lebanon: A Crucial Stopover on the Migration Highway

Nestled along the African-Eurasian Flyway, Lebanon plays a vital role in the survival of migratory birds. Its diverse landscapes provide essential rest points for birds traveling between Europe and Africa. However, illegal hunting and habitat destruction remain serious threats to these majestic travelers.

The Threat of Illegal Hunting 🚨

Despite laws protecting migratory species, illegal poaching persists, endangering thousands of birds each season. Lebanon has committed to international agreements such as the AEWA (African-Eurasian Waterbird Agreement), yet enforcement remains a challenge. SPNL, through its Hima conservation approach, works tirelessly to raise awareness, involve local communities, and advocate for stronger protections.

Why It Matters

🔹 White Storks are a keystone species, playing an essential role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
🔹 Their migration symbolizes the interconnectedness of nature, reminding us that conservation knows no borders.
🔹 Protecting these birds is part of a global responsibility to safeguard biodiversity.

Take Action: Protect, Don’t Shoot!

🔎 Spot illegal hunting? Report it! Every voice counts in protecting Lebanon’s wildlife.
🤝 Support conservation efforts—partner with SPNL to help safeguard migratory birds.
📢 Spread awareness—the more people know, the stronger our collective impact!

🌍 Join the movement for safe skies! Let’s ensure that Lebanon remains a haven, not a hunting ground, for these magnificent birds.

🔗 Learn more & support: https://www.spnl.org/campaigns/equipping-our-migratory-bird-rescue-center/

#SPNL #WhiteStorks #BirdMigration #HimaConservation #SafeSkies #BekaaValley #LebanonWildlife #EndIllegalHunting #ProtectNature

Al Hima Magazine 5th Issue

This edition of Al Hima magazine weaves together inspiring stories of nature conservation and community resilience, highlighting how Lebanon is being stitched back to life—one Hima at a time. The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) continues its mission to preserve the country’s natural heritage by empowering local communities. A cornerstone of this effort is the BioConnect project, funded by the European Union, which has achieved three national firsts: Lebanon’s first natural park (Upper Matn), first geological park (Shouf-Jezzine), and first endowment Hima (Btekhnay).

Read Previous issues

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