What are the wild animals in Lebanon?

Lebanon, despite its relatively small size, boasts a diverse range of wild animals. While some populations have been impacted by habitat loss and hunting, various species still thrive in the country's mountains, forests, and coastal areas. Here are some of the notable wild animals found in Lebanon:

Mammals:

* Carnivores:

* Wolf: While considered rare, there have been confirmed sightings in recent years, mainly in the northern mountains.

* Jackal: Found throughout the country, particularly in the Bekaa Valley.

* Fox: Several species of fox, including the red fox and the common fox, are widespread.

* Wildcat: Occurs in the higher elevations of the mountains.

* Caracal: A medium-sized wild cat, occasionally sighted in the eastern Bekaa Valley.

* Leopard: Though historically present, leopards are now extremely rare and possibly extinct in Lebanon.

* Otter: Found in the Litani River and its tributaries.

* Ungulates:

* Wild boar: Common in forested areas and agricultural land.

* Roe deer: Found in the higher mountain ranges.

* Mountain gazelle: Once abundant, their numbers have declined drastically; they are considered endangered.

* Rodents:

* Porcupine: Found in various habitats, including forests and rocky areas.

* Squirrel: Several species of squirrels inhabit the forests.

* Mouse: Various species of mice are present.

* Others:

* Hare: Common in open areas and agricultural land.

* Hedgehog: Found in forests, gardens, and urban areas.

* Bats: Various bat species inhabit the country, playing an important role in insect control.

Birds:

* Birds of Prey:

* Eagle: Several species of eagles, including the Bonelli's eagle, are found in Lebanon.

* Vulture: The griffon vulture and the Egyptian vulture are both found in the country.

* Hawk: Various species of hawks, including the common buzzard and the Eurasian sparrowhawk, are present.

* Other Birds:

* Woodpecker: Several species of woodpeckers inhabit Lebanon's forests.

* Nightingale: A common songbird found in various habitats.

* Kingfisher: The common kingfisher is found along rivers and streams.

* Hoopoe: A distinctive bird with a striking crest, common in open areas.

* Wren: Small, agile birds that inhabit forests and gardens.

Reptiles and Amphibians:

* Snakes: Various species of snakes, including the non-venomous grass snake, are found in Lebanon.

* Lizards: Many lizard species, including the Mediterranean house gecko, are common.

* Turtles: The Mediterranean pond turtle is found in some areas.

* Frogs and Toads: Various species of frogs and toads are present in Lebanon's wetlands and forests.

Marine Life:

* Fish: The Mediterranean Sea off Lebanon's coast is rich in fish species.

* Dolphins: Several dolphin species, including the common dolphin and the bottlenose dolphin, are found in the waters.

* Sea Turtles: Several species of sea turtles, including the loggerhead sea turtle and the green sea turtle, are known to visit Lebanese waters.

It's important to remember that this is not an exhaustive list, and the distribution and abundance of these animals vary depending on location and habitat. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the protection of Lebanon's diverse wildlife.