First Cranes Arrive at Agamon Hula Nature Reserve for Winter

The first grey cranes have arrived at the Agamon Hula-KKL nature reserve in northern Israel overnight between Sunday and Monday, marking the beginning of their annual winter migration. These cranes primarily originate from northern Russia, Finland, and Estonia, and typically arrive in family groups, including young birds hatched last spring. Tens of thousands more cranes are expected to arrive in the coming months to spend the winter in the region.

Eyal Ostrovinsky, Chairman of KKL-JNF, stated that Agamon Hula is a significant tourist and economic asset for the residents of the North and Galilee. He emphasized that the cranes' return highlights the importance of nature conservation and the responsibility to support local tourism and communities.

Einbar Shulamit Rubin, Field Manager at Agamon Hula, shared her excitement, noting that the cranes' arrival was slightly delayed this year. She described waiting by the observation blind at first light to witness their beauty. The cranes join a diverse array of other birds already present at the reserve, including flamingos, pelicans, shorebirds, ibises, and herons.

Agamon Hula is recognized as one of Israel's crucial habitats and a vital stopover point along the bird migration route. Its rich food sources and safe environment provide essential resting and energy-replenishing opportunities for migrating birds.