Description
Lake Qaraaoun is favorable to soaring migratory birds. Always better to have a spotting scope for observation during migration period! The dam (1) at the southern end of the lake creates an updraft that is favourable to soaring birds concentration, the latter using it as a local preferential migration corridor. Storks, cranes, egrets, herons, pelicans and raptors can be seen in large numbers during spring migration but it is also worth it during autumn migration. Historical bird data of the site is well documented in the "State of Lebanon's Birds and IBAs", 2014, printed and published by Dar Bilal in Beirut.
Some interesting vagrants can be spotted there occasionaly as well such as the Nagâț de stepă.
Details
Access
Acces to Lake Qaraaoun is easy from via the Aitanit-Qaraaoun road, on which by the way, restaurants and touristic infrastructures are present. Having a car is necessary. A local birding guide can also be very helpful.
Terrain and Habitat
Wetland , Lake , Plain , PlateauConditions
Flat , No shadow , High water possible , Open landscapeCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
YesGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring migrationRoute
Paved road , Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
CarBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Like on other preferential migration sites in Lebanon or other countries located along migration routes, hunting and persecution of birds is common. Many hunters shoot down soaring birds on the site, so extra care is needed.
