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Observer
3 days ago
- Observer
Oman is An Ornithologist's Paradise
As someone who has harboured a lifelong passion for birdwatching, Oman represents one of the most remarkable ornithological destinations on earth. Back in England, we birdwatchers are affectionately known as 'Twitchers', a term whose origin remains a mystery to me, though it perfectly captures the excitement that courses through us when spotting a rare species. Oman's avifauna is truly extraordinary, with a total of 556 species recorded, making it a treasure trove for anyone passionate about birds. This incredible diversity stems from the country's unique position at the crossroads of Africa, Asia and Europe, combined with its varied landscapes ranging from coastal plains and desert oases to mountainous regions and monsoon-fed southern areas. During the summer months in Oman, I'm treated to a spectacular display right from my bedroom balcony. A small group of Bee Eaters regularly perches on my balcony wall, creating a living rainbow with their brilliant plumage. These magnificent birds have a beautiful array of colours – emerald greens, sapphire blues, golden yellows and rich rust-reds that shimmer in the sun. Their hunting technique is worth watching: they zoom down with incredible precision to snatch a bee from the air, then return to their perch to methodically beat their prey against my balcony wall before swallowing it whole. This behaviour removes the bee's stinger. The contrast between birdwatching in England and Oman couldn't be more striking. In the UK we Twitchers will eagerly travel a hundred miles or more for the mere chance of glimpsing an Osprey, a bird so rare and magnificent that its appearance generates excitement throughout the birding community. These large hawks are slender, with long, narrow wings and long legs. Ospreys fly with a marked kink in their wings, making an M-shape when seen from below. I was astounded to spot an Osprey during a visit to the Al Mouj Golf Course, watching in awe as it performed its spectacular fishing dive, plunging into the sea with deadly accuracy to emerge triumphant with a silvery fish clutched in its talons. The Marsh Harrier, another species considered rare in England, regularly graces the skies above my home in Oman. Their distinctive loud shrieking calls announce their presence as they soar overhead, hunting for prey with their keen eyes and impressive aerial manoeuvres. What would be a red- letter day for any British birdwatcher has become a part of my daily routine in Oman. Driving along November 18th Street has become an unexpected birding adventure, where I frequently spot magnificent raptors that would be the highlight of any European birding expedition. Spotted Eagles, with their broad wings and distinctive plumage patterns, are regular sights during these journeys. One particularly memorable encounter occurred at dusk when a Barn Owl swept across the sky just ten metres above me, its ghostly white form cutting through the evening air silently. My garden has become a natural aviary, particularly enchanting when the brilliantly bright Arabian Purple Sunbird darts from flower to flower. These tiny gems move with hummingbird-like agility, their iridescent plumage catching the light as they probe deep into blossoms for nectar. When I first saw one I thought it was a hummingbird because watching them feed is like observing a hummingbird dancing amongst the flowers. I saw one only yesterday. There are approximately one hundred different coloured Sunbirds. Oman's natural heritage extends far beyond its remarkable bird life, encompassing creatures that I find beautiful rather than frightening. I particularly enjoy picking up and holding a tiny gecko. They have remarkably large eyes and the beneficial habit of consuming those pesky mosquitoes. While many Omanis remain inexplicably fearful of these harmless creatures, I find them charming. Oman's snake population is largely harmless, though sadly many people's first instinct is to kill these magnificent creatures rather than carefully relocating them to their natural habitat. The late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos was renowned for his deep love of all animals, and his compassionate philosophy has helped create an environment where Oman's diverse wildlife can flourish. As we observe and appreciate Oman's wildlife, it's important to remember that we and they are all God's creatures, deserving of respect and protection. Rather than fearing or destroying the wildlife that shares our environment, we should cherish these living treasures that make Oman such an extraordinary ornithologist's paradise. So the next time you walk near trees look up at the sky and you might be lucky enough to see an Omani Indian Roller. It has unmistakably striking blue colours in flight and is not uncommon. The bird is a resident of Oman, not a migrant, meaning it stays here year-round, though it may be more common in winter than summer.
CairoScene
26-04-2025
- CairoScene
The Untold Beauty of Egypt's Natural Protectorates
Though often overlooked, these protectorates offer a window into the evolution of life on this sacred land. When we think of Egypt, the mind immediately wanders to dazzling coastal retreats, awe-inspiring monuments that speak of a timeless history, the urban charm of Cairo with its ancient landmarks, or the haunting beauty embedded in the desert landscape of Sinai and the Western and Eastern Saharas. Yet, for some reason, one treasure remains overlooked: Egypt's natural protectorates. Though often overlooked by tourists and locals alike, these protectorates are just as significant as the ancient temples and monuments. They tell a different kind of story, offering a window into the evolution of life on this sacred land, not just through human history, but through plants, animals, and the geological changes that have shaped our Earth. With over 30 official natural protectorates, Egypt still has countless stories to tell and hidden beauty to uncover. These protected areas offer more than just a different experience for travellers—they're perfect for a tranquil weekend escape, a place to reconnect with nature, and an opportunity to reflect away from the distractions of the modern world. So, what is Egypt's magnificent land still keeping hidden from us? Lake Burullus Protectorate Tucked away in Kafr El-Sheikh, northeast of the Rosetta branch, the Burullus Protected Area is one of Egypt's most striking natural reserves. Spanning around 460 square kilometers—420 of which are covered by Lake Burullus, the country's second-largest natural lake—this vast landscape is a true ecological treasure. Framed by sweeping sand dunes, the lake creates a unique habitat that supports around 135 species of plants, along with rich salt marshes and wild flora used for fodder, medicine, and fiber. It also serves as a critical stopover for migratory birds, making it a vital link in international bird migration routes. Declared a protected area in 1998, Burullus stands out not only for its beauty but also for its ecological importance. It plays a key role in biodiversity conservation and serves as a living laboratory for environmental research—offering sanctuary to countless species and insight into the delicate balance of Egypt's natural ecosystems. Ashtum al-Gamil Protectorate Situated along the Saheli Road between Damietta and Port Said, Ashtum al-Gamil was declared a natural protectorate in 1998 and spans 35 square kilometers. Though modest in size, this coastal reserve plays a major role in the region's ecosystem. Every spring and autumn, it becomes a critical rest stop for migratory birds, offering a safe haven where they can pause, feed, and refuel during their long journeys. The area also provides refuge to several endangered species, including the Green and Blue-winged Teal, Marsh Harrier, Egyptian Geese, Ringed Dove, Alexandrian Quail, Black-crowned Night Heron, and Purple Swamphen. Resident birds like ospreys, pelicans, woodpeckers, and herons can be found year-round, alongside a rich marine environment teeming with mollusks, crustaceans, and various species of fish. For birdwatchers, biologists, or anyone with a love for coastal nature, Ashtum al-Gamil is a hidden gem worth discovering. Kobat al-Hassana Protectorate Declared a natural protectorate in 1989, Kobat al-Hassana is located in the Wadi al-Hassana area of Abo Rawash, spanning just over one square kilometer. What it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in geological significance. This site is home to striking rock formations and natural structures rarely found elsewhere in Egypt. Often referred to as a 'natural laboratory,' the area offers a treasure trove of rare rocks and fossils—particularly marine fossils dating back an estimated 100 million years. These remnants provide invaluable insights into Earth's ancient past, making Kobat al-Hassana a hotspot for scientific research and a site of global geological importance. Sannur Cave Valley Protectorate Located about 115 km southeast of Cairo and 10 km southeast of Beni Suef, the Sannur Cave was discovered in the 1980s when quarry blasting revealed its entrance. This limestone cave, overlaid with alabaster and shaped by thermal springs, is believed to be the longest cave in Egypt, with a history stretching back around 65 million years. The cave is renowned for its stunning geological formations, including impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Due to its extraordinary geological significance, it was declared a natural protectorate by the Egyptian government in 1992. Mount Kamel Meteor Protectorate Declared a national protectorate in 2012, Mount Kamel is located east of Auwainat in Al-Wadi Al-Gadid. The reserve gained attention in 2011 when a team of Egyptian and Italian researchers discovered evidence of a meteor strike in the area. Research suggests that this event occurred between 2,000 and 5,000 years ago. Among the findings was a remarkable 85 kg meteor fragment, which is now displayed at the Geological Museum. The Gebel Elba National Park Nestled in the southeastern corner of Egypt, Gebel Elba National Park spans 35,600 square kilometers, bordering the Halaib Triangle near Sudan. Established in 1985, the park is known for its remarkable diversity of ecosystems, from coral reefs and mangrove coastlines to rugged mountain terrain. Its rare climate, which receives significant rainfall, supports an unexpected range of vegetation compared to the rest of Egypt's arid landscape. Due to its remote location and environmental significance, access to the park is tightly controlled, often requiring permits and a police escort. Nevertheless, Gebel Elba remains one of Egypt's most pristine natural areas, offering a sanctuary for wildlife and breathtaking landscapes for those fortunate enough to visit.
