BirdLife International Recognizes Rashaya – Mount Hermon as a Key Biodiversity Hotspot

BirdLife International, in collaboration with the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), its national partner, has officially recognized Rashaya – Mount Hermon as a crucial biodiversity hotspot in Lebanon. Spanning 542.38 km², this ecologically significant region has been designated as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) and a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA), highlighting its vital role in global conservation efforts.

A Haven for Wildlife and Traditional Livelihoods
Nestled in the Rashaya District of southern Lebanon’s Beqaa Governorate, this unique ecosystem boasts an elevation range from 798 to 2,772 meters. The area experiences an average annual temperature of 15°C and receives between 650 mm and 750 mm of rainfall, mostly from November to March. Three distinct vegetation belts—Evergreen Mediterranean Maquis, Xero-Montane Open Forest, and Subalpine Mountain Steppe—support a diverse range of plant and animal species.

Critical Habitats and Sustainable Practices
The Rashaya region includes forests, grasslands, and rocky terrains that provide vital habitats for endangered species and sustain local traditional practices. Protected pine forests serve as important ecological zones and offer economic benefits through pine nut harvesting. Additionally, agriculture in the area produces cherries, olives, apricots, grapes, and apples, contributing to local livelihoods.

A Refuge for Threatened Birds and Mammals
Recent ornithological surveys conducted by BirdLife International, SPNL, and local experts have documented 114 bird species in Rashaya, including nine globally threatened species such as the Common Pochard (VU), Egyptian Vulture (EN), Greater Spotted Eagle (VU), and Syrian Serin (VU). The region is also home to 29 migratory soaring bird species, reinforcing its global conservation significance.

Beyond birds, Rashaya supports a variety of mammals, including the nationally vulnerable Canis lupus pallipes (Persian Wolf), Felis sylvestris tristrami (Wildcat), and Hyaena hyaena syriaca (Striped Hyena), classified as Endangered at the national level.

A Step Towards Conservation
In 2020, Rashaya was approved as a Nature Reserve under Lebanese Law 130/2019, marking a significant milestone in Lebanon’s conservation efforts. While awaiting official ratification by Parliament, BirdLife International, SPNL, and conservation partners are committed to advancing environmental protection and sustainable development in the region.

Call for Action
We urge policymakers, conservationists, and the public to support the protection of Rashaya – Mount Hermon and its unique biodiversity. Increased research, sustainable ecotourism, and policy advocacy will ensure this natural treasure is preserved for future generations.