Israel Serves as a Crucial Global Bird Migration Corridor Hosting 500 Million Birds Annually

Israel is located on one of the world's most important bird migration routes, connecting three continents: Asia, Europe, and Africa. Dr. Haim Moyal, a lecturer in nature and biology at Levinsky-Wingate Academic Center, explains that around 500 million birds pass through Israel each migration season, making it one of the top global corridors for avian migration. This route features diverse ecological landscapes ranging from alpine zones to deserts.

Israel hosts over 560 bird species, more than anywhere in Europe, many of which are migratory. While fewer species breed in Israel due to its challenging summer climate, many birds arrive in spring from Africa. The country sees more wintering species because of its relatively mild climate and unfrozen lakes, offering favorable conditions for birds during colder months.

Dr. Moyal highlights special species such as the wallcreeper, which feeds on mosquitoes in summer, and the desert wheatear, which faces threats from secondary poisoning aimed at predators like wolves. The hoopoe, a snake-eating bird, skillfully avoids venomous bites by grasping snakes near their heads, though some encounters can be fatal.

Migration is perilous, especially for young birds undertaking long journeys across the Mediterranean and Sahara deserts. Many perish due to exhaustion, storms, or insufficient fat reserves. Larger birds often avoid crossing the Mediterranean directly, choosing longer land routes instead. Some species, like pelicans, must rest and feed in Israel before continuing to wintering grounds in Chad.

A recently discovered biological mechanism allows migratory birds to sense Earth's magnetic field through their eyes, aiding navigation. Dr. Moyal notes the striking colors of many migratory birds, especially males, and emphasizes that birdwatching in Israel attracts tens of thousands of enthusiasts annually. Bird tourism has grown significantly in recent decades, but there is still potential for further development. Dr. Moyal calls for increased awareness of Israel's unique natural resource as a vital bird migration corridor and wintering habitat.