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Author: abdulnasser eisa

The Libyan Society for Birds Participates in World Environment Day Celebration in Zliten.

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At the invitation of the Zliten Scout Commission, the Libyan Society for Birds participated in the World Environment Day celebration held on Friday, 13 June 2025, at the Training Hall of the Zliten Scout Commission.

The event was attended by several organizations concerned with environmental issues, including the Zliten Environmental Affairs Monitoring Office and the Libyan Center for Environmental Science and Technology Studies – Central Region Branch.

The celebration included a series of awareness lectures on environmental issues. The Libyan Society for Birds delivered a presentation entitled “Migratory Birds: Their Importance and the Threats They Face”, presented by Mr. Elyas Al-Hilali, member of the Society. The lecture highlighted the vital ecological role of migratory birds and the challenges threatening their survival.

The Libyan Society for Birds extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to the Zliten Scout Commission for the kind invitation and excellent organization, expressing pride in this initiative aimed at promoting environmental awareness within the community.

Scientific Study on Wetland Classification and Bird Diversity in Benghazi.

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New Scientific Publication in the “Libyan Journal of Environmental Science and Technology (LJEEST)”

A new research article titled “Bird Diversity in Selected Wetlands of Benghazi, Libya” has been published by the researchers: Magdolin Alfaghi, Abdulnasser Eisa, Hudi Alhaddad, Zakaria Abomonji, and Khaled Etayeb.

The study highlights bird diversity in the wetlands of Benghazi, covering three sites: Lake 23 July, Lake Julyanah, and Qanfudhah Sabkha, during the period from January to December 2023.

The study aimed to classify these areas according to Ramsar Convention criteria, document the bird species visiting these wetlands across different seasons, and assess their conservation status regarding the risk of extinction.

Key findings of the study include:

  • Classification of Lake Julyanah and Lake 23 July as “Coastal Saline Lakes (Type J)”, and Qanfudhah Sabkha as “Seasonal Saline Flats (Type R)”.
  • A total of 47,680 birds were recorded, representing 96 species (67 waterbird species and 29 non-waterbird species).
  • Lake Julyanah exhibited the highest species diversity, while Qanfudhah Sabkha recorded the highest abundance.
  • Autumn showed the highest diversity, whereas winter had the lowest.
  • 21 species documented are classified as threatened.

This research represents an important step in documenting biodiversity and protecting wetlands in Libya, providing essential data to support conservation strategies for threatened species.

📄 Full article available at: https://birds.ly/publications/

The Libyan Society for Birds Marks World Migratory Bird Day with a Scientific Workshop and Field Visit for Bird Monitoring.

Written by abdulnasser eisa on . Posted in Events, Workshops. 6 Comments on The Libyan Society for Birds Marks World Migratory Bird Day with a Scientific Workshop and Field Visit for Bird Monitoring.

On Saturday, 10 May 2025, the Libyan Society for Birds organized a celebration in honor of World Migratory Bird Day, which included a workshop presenting the results of the 2024–2025 Winter Bird Survey in Libya. The event was held in collaboration with the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Tripoli, and took place at the Rashid Kaabar Hall at the university.

The celebration was attended by prominent academic and scientific figures, including the Vice President for Scientific Affairs at the University of Tripoli, the Vice Dean for Scientific Affairs at the Faculty of Science, the Head of the Department of Zoology, and the Director of the National Center for Research on Transboundary and Tropical Diseases, alongside a group of specialists, faculty members, graduate and undergraduate students, and other individuals interested in biodiversity.

The program included presentations and scientific lectures covering:

  • A visual presentation of the Society’s activities in bird research.
  • Lectures on migratory birds and the challenges they face.
  • The results of the 2024–2025 Winter Bird Survey in Libya.
  • A lecture on illegal bird hunting.
  • A lecture on the importance of wetlands and strategies for their protection.

Additionally, the Director of the National Center for Research on Transboundary and Tropical Diseases presented a brief overview of collaborative efforts with the Society and highlighted preliminary results from samples collected during the winter survey.

During the event, the launch of the “Libya Bird Monitoring Platform” was announced. Developed in cooperation with Libyan Spider Company, this digital platform aims to document bird data and facilitate access to information on avian biodiversity in Libya.

The workshop concluded with the recognition of organizations and individuals who contributed to the success of the 2025 Winter Bird Survey in Libya through the distribution of plaques and certificates of appreciation.

Following the workshop, several participants, accompanied by members of the Libyan Society for Birds, visited the Al-Hadba Wastewater Treatment Plant as part of the celebration program. During this field visit, several important bird species in the area were observed and recorded.

In conclusion, the Libyan Society for Birds extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to all participants and supporters of this important scientific and environmental event.

Participation of the Libyan Society for Birds in a Field Trip to Wadi Kaam in Collaboration with the Department of Zoology – University of Tripoli.

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On Saturday, 3 May 2025, the Libyan Society for Birds participated in a scientific field trip in collaboration with the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science – University of Tripoli, to the areas of Wadi Kaam Dam and Ain Kaam. This activity was part of the practical field program for graduate students enrolled in the Ornithology course and undergraduate students enrolled in the Aquatic Environment course.

This participation aimed to strengthen joint scientific cooperation and included several scientific activities, such as observing and recording bird species present in the two areas, as well as providing educational information on the importance of wetlands and their rich biodiversity. These activities contributed to enhancing environmental awareness and practical knowledge among the participating students.

The Libyan Society for Birds extends its thanks to all who contributed to the success of this scientific field trip, particularly the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, and the Transport Department of the University of Tripoli for their support and logistical assistance.

Field Documentation of White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) in Al-Heera and Collection of Stool Samples for Health Evaluation.

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As part of its ongoing efforts to monitor and study the White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) in Libya, the Libyan Society for Birds conducted a second field visit to the Al-Heera area on Thursday, May 1, 2025. During this visit, the team successfully observed the previously reported flock of White Storks and documented their numbers. In addition, stool samples were collected for laboratory analysis to assess the birds’ health and the quality of their surrounding environment.

This step builds on earlier field visits following reports of a large gathering of this species in the region. The Society emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local communities in wildlife monitoring and commends the contributions of individuals who enrich scientific databases and support conservation efforts for migratory birds and their natural habitats.

The Libyan Society for Birds encourages the public to continue reporting similar observations, in order to raise environmental awareness and strengthen field-based studies on birds in Libya.

Scientific Collaboration between the Libyan Society for Birds and the Department of Zoology, University of Tripoli, to Study Wetlands in Tawergha.

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As part of strengthening scientific and research cooperation, the Libyan Society for Birds, in coordination with the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science – University of Tripoli, conducted a field study in the city of Tawergha on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The aim was to document and study the biodiversity of the wetlands in the area.

The field program included the participation of researchers and students from both undergraduate and postgraduate levels (Master’s and PhD), particularly those enrolled in the Ornithology course. During the study, several species of resident and migratory birds using Tawergha wetlands were identified, with a special focus on highlighting the ecological importance of these sensitive natural habitats.

On the sidelines of the visit, a joint meeting was held with the head of the Tawergha Municipal Council branch and office directors, during which prospects for cooperation were discussed regarding future scientific research and projects aimed at the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands in the region.

The Libyan Society for Birds extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to the head of the Tawergha Municipal Council branch for the warm reception and support provided, and acknowledges the efforts of the Department of Movement, University of Tripoli, for facilitating the logistics of the research team’s fieldwork.

Webinar on Controlling Red-Billed Quelea in Africa Without the Use of Pesticides.

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At the kind invitation of the Libyan Representative to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome, Italy, Professor Khaled Etayeb, President of the Libyan Society for Birds, participated on Thursday morning, 17 April 2025, in a scientific online webinar entitled “The Webinar on Quelea Birds Control in Africa Without Fenthion”, held via Zoom on the international network.

The webinar featured 10 presentations from various African countries, all focusing on strategies for controlling the Red-Billed Quelea (Quelea quelea) within its distribution range across the African continent, particularly in tropical regions.

This bird species is considered one of the most destructive pests to agricultural crops, especially maize and cereals, notably in Central Africa. Discussions during the webinar centered on exploring safe, non-chemical alternatives to pesticides, in line with the global trend toward environmental protection and reducing the use of toxic substances such as Fenthion.

Field Visit of Mediterranean Conference Participants to Leptis Magna and the Headquarters of Libya Fish Company.

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On Monday, April 14, 2025, a field visit was organized as part of the Mediterranean Conference on Marine and Coastal Biodiversity, with the participation of members of the organizing and scientific committees, along with several conference attendees.

The visit began with a tour of the coastal archaeological city of Leptis Magna, where the delegation explored its historical and cultural landmarks, highlighting the connection between cultural heritage and environmental dimensions.

The program also included a visit to the headquarters of Libya Fish Company, following a kind invitation from Mr. Mohamed Al-Ajeel, who warmly welcomed the participants and hosted a luncheon in their honor, in recognition of their efforts to support marine and coastal biodiversity issues.

This field visit formed part of the conference’s side activities, aiming to strengthen interaction among participants and showcase Libya’s outstanding cultural and environmental sites.

Libyan Society for Birds Highlights Active Role in the Mediterranean Conference on Marine and Coastal Biodiversity.

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The Libyan Society for Birds participated in the Mediterranean Conference on Marine and Coastal Biodiversity, held from 12 to 14 April 2025, marking a distinguished presence through the presentation of five scientific contributions drawn from the Society’s ongoing research and projects in ornithology and wetland studies.

The Society also played a prominent organizational role, serving on several committees, including the conference organizing committee. Notably, Professor Khaled Etayeb, President of the Libyan Society for Birds, chaired the conference scientific committee, reflecting the Society’s significant standing at both scientific and institutional levels.

The conference featured a wide range of research papers addressing topics related to marine and coastal biodiversity, the challenges it faces, and sustainable protection mechanisms. Side activities included a roundtable on the Blue Economy, attended by the Minister of Environment and the Minister of Economy and Trade.

Additionally, a workshop on the national strategy for seagrass protection in Libya was conducted, with participation from leading experts and researchers.

The conference concluded with a results presentation ceremony, evaluation of research papers and scientific posters, and recognition of pioneering academics, committee members, and contributors who supported and organized the event.

Final recommendations from the conference are expected to be released after compiling proposals from all participants and will be officially published once approved.

Participation of the President of the Libyan Society for Birds in the Mediterranean Waterbirds Network Meeting.

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Professor Khaled Etayeb, President of the Libyan Society for Birds, participated in the Mediterranean Waterbirds Network meeting held on Saturday, 5 April 2025, during the 23rd European Bird Census Council Conference “Bird Numbers 2025” in Riga, Latvia.

The meeting brought together representatives from all member countries of the Mediterranean network, where several important topics were discussed regarding the monitoring and conservation of waterbirds in the region. Key points included the 2025 Winter Waterbird Census and preparations for the upcoming regional report, which will cover results from 2019 to 2023.

The participation of the Libyan Society for Birds in this meeting reflects its active role within the network and its contribution to providing accurate scientific data on waterbirds in Libya, enhancing understanding of ecological patterns and supporting biodiversity conservation efforts across the Mediterranean basin.

Participation of the President of the Libyan Society for Birds in the European Bird Census Council Conference “Bird Numbers 2025”.

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Professor Khaled Etayeb, President of the Libyan Society for Birds and national coordinator of the Winter Migratory Bird Census in Libya, participated in the 23rd European Bird Census Council Conference (Bird Numbers 2025), held from 31 March to 4 April 2025 in Riga, Latvia.

This participation was part of a partnership program with the Mediterranean Waterbirds Network, supervised by Tour du Valat in France, which supports monitoring and conservation efforts for waterbirds across the Mediterranean region.

The conference brought together 280 participants from 44 countries and provided an international scientific platform for exchanging knowledge and expertise in bird monitoring and census. Several scientific papers were presented, including analyses of winter migratory bird census data from the Mediterranean region, encompassing North African countries.

This engagement reflects the growing role of the Libyan Society for Birds at both regional and international levels in bird monitoring and conservation, and underscores its contribution to strengthening scientific collaboration among Mediterranean countries.

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Unusual White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) Flock Observed in Al-Heera.

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As part of the Libyan Society for Birds’ ongoing programs to monitor populations and nesting of the White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) in Libya, Mr. Mahfouz Al-Ruqai contacted Professor Khaled Etayeb, President of the Society, reporting an unusual gathering of approximately 160 individuals at a farm in the Al-Heera area.

In response to this valuable information, a team from the Libyan Society for Birds conducted a field visit to the site on Tuesday, 25 March 2025, aiming to document the number of birds accurately and check for any ringed individuals, which could provide insights into their migration routes. Upon arrival, the team observed that the storks had already left the site, prompting a survey of the surrounding areas to locate the flock; however, no individuals were found.

These initiatives highlight the importance of engaging local communities in documenting species and studying their movements, contributing to a better understanding of the ecological patterns of migratory birds. The Libyan Society for Birds expresses its sincere thanks and appreciation to Mr. Mahfouz Al-Ruqai for his cooperation and dedication in reporting this sighting and encourages all community members to participate in wildlife monitoring and report similar observations to support scientific efforts in bird conservation and habitat protection.