Tucked away in Lebanon’s eastern mountain range, Mount Hermon Nature Reserve (MHNR) stands as a sanctuary for some of the country’s most threatened wildlife and unique flora. Declared a protected area in late 2020, this 1,260-hectare expanse in Rashaya District, Bekaa Governorate, is home to an extraordinary array of biodiversity. With its ancient oak forests, medicinal plants, and rare animal species, MHNR is not only a haven for nature but also a beacon of conservation efforts in the region.
A Biodiversity Hotspot Under Threat
Mount Hermon is renowned for its rich vegetation, hosting a diverse mix of oaks, mallow, hawthorn, and wild almonds, along with over 100 plant species known for their medicinal properties. However, it is not just the flora that makes this nature reserve special; it is also a refuge for key mammals such as wolves, hyenas, and wild cats. Additionally, it serves as a vital passage for migratory birds, particularly the endangered steppe eagle (Aquila nipalensis).
Despite its ecological significance, Mount Hermon faces mounting challenges from habitat degradation, illegal logging, overgrazing, and human encroachment. To address these threats, the BioConnect project has identified three Key Biodiversity Features (KBFs) that require urgent protection:
- The Grey Wolf (Canis lupus) – Once a common sight in the region, the grey wolf population has dwindled over the past three decades. While the species is globally classified as Least Concern, its presence in Mount Hermon is increasingly rare, raising concerns about its long-term survival.
© Vilda – Rollin Verlinde
- The Lebanon Viper (Montivipera bornmuelleri) – This endemic viper is globally recognized as Endangered due to habitat destruction, overgrazing, and persecution by local communities who view it as a threat. Its survival is further jeopardized by military activity and infrastructure development in the region.
- The Brant Oak (Quercus brantii) – Endemic to Mount Hermon and the Shouf Biosphere Reserve, this majestic oak is under severe threat from excessive logging and habitat violations. Preserving these ancient trees is critical to maintaining the ecological balance of the reserve.
Taking Action: Conservation Strategies for Mount Hermon
Recognizing the urgent need to protect these species, the BioConnect project has launched targeted conservation initiatives:
- Community Engagement & Awareness: Educating local communities about the ecological importance of the Lebanon viper and the grey wolf, while working with hunters to enforce Lebanon’s hunting laws.
- Forest Restoration & Protection: Implementing reforestation efforts and stricter enforcement against illegal logging to safeguard the Brant oak’s habitat.
- Scientific Monitoring & Research: Conducting biodiversity surveys and mapping key species distributions to track population trends and improve conservation efforts.
- Strengthening Ranger Patrols: Increasing surveillance and on-ground protection to curb habitat destruction and illegal activities within the reserve.
A Collective Effort for a Sustainable Future
The conservation of Mount Hermon’s biodiversity is not just the responsibility of experts and authorities; it is a collective effort involving local communities, volunteers, students, and municipalities. A dedicated team of conservationists, rangers, and researchers is working tirelessly to monitor wildlife, restore forests, and raise awareness about the importance of protecting this unique ecosystem.
With continued efforts, Mount Hermon Nature Reserve can remain a thriving sanctuary for Lebanon’s extraordinary biodiversity, ensuring that future generations inherit a landscape rich in life and natural beauty.
Prepared by:
Lara Kanso, BioConnect – Technical Officer, Shouf Biosphere Reserve
Kholoud Harb, BioConnect – Communication Officer, Shouf Biosphere Reserve
