Millions of migratory birds slaughtered in Lebanon for likes and fun!

Lebanon is facing a severe bird-poaching crisis. Millions of migratory birds are killed each year as they pass through the country on their journey between Africa and Europe. The mountainous terrain, combined with weak law enforcement due to ongoing crises, has created a perfect environment for poachers. These individuals often justify their actions as a tradition passed down from their ancestors. However, conservationists argue that this practice is both wrong and unsustainable.

An injured kestrel is treated by members of the Lebanese Association for Migratory Birds at a rehabilitation centre near Zgharta, Lebanon. Photograph: Hannah McCarthy

With little to no law enforcement, hunters have free rein to shoot birds "just for fun," leaving countless carcasses to rot. The thrill of the kill has taken on a new dimension with the rise of social media. Poachers proudly share their gruesome trophies online, turning the slaughter into a macabre spectacle. “Those low-flying birds are easy targets for poachers who live in the mountain communities," says Michel Sawan, director of the Lebanese Association of Migratory Birds (Lamb). “They say: ‘We inherited this culture from our grandfathers,’ and I keep saying: ‘Your grandfathers are and were wrong.’” These hunters showcase their cruelty on social media, with videos of birds being shot down like targets. “They massacre birds for likes. If they had nowhere to post these videos, they wouldn’t be shooting these birds,” Sawan says.

Every year, 2.6 million birds are illegally killed as they fly over Lebanese territory, according to BirdLife International. They are shot as they migrate seasonally between Eurasia and Africa, a journey undertaken by about 2 billion birds.

Mount Terbol, in northern Lebanon. The valley below forms part of one of the world’s busiest routes for migratory birds between Africa and Eurasia. Photograph: Hannah McCarthy

The consequences of this unchecked carnage extend beyond the bird population. Every year, people are injured or killed in hunting accidents. Conservationists working to protect these birds face threats and violence. The ecological impact is also devastating. Birds play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of nature, and their loss has far-reaching consequences for the environment. According to Fouad Itani, head of the Association for Bird Conservation in Lebanon, "414 bird species are recorded in Lebanon, including 48 of high conservation concern, all of which are shot or trapped in the country." He believes that stopping poaching is vital to the health of both local and global ecosystems. "Birds play essential roles in controlling pests, pollinating plants, and dispersing seeds, which are crucial for maintaining ecological balance," explains Itani. "The loss of these birds can lead to increased pest populations, reduced pollination and a decline in plant diversity."

While there are efforts to combat this crisis, including the formation of anti-poaching units, the challenges are immense. Limited resources, community pressure, and the sheer scale of the problem make it difficult to stem the tide. As climate change alters migration patterns, the pressure on bird populations is increasing. Urgent action is needed to protect these vital creatures and restore balance to Lebanon's skies.