|
It's a beautiful oasis in the
middle of the eastern desert. It include several natural
and ancient built pools, a seasonally flooded marshland
, And is a great spot for bird watching it is home to
aquatic and desert species along with migrants in
spring, such as the Temmiinck's Horned Lark, Desert
Lark, Desert Wheatear and Trumpeter Finch. In winter,
Cranes and Imperial Eagles roam across this area.
Migratory Birds: Jordan lies on the
main migration route between Russia and Africa, and many
birds stop in Azraq to rest on their long journey.
Several birds of prey stop to drink and hunt at the
pools on their autumn migration, such as the Honey
Buzzard and Montague's Harrier. Other migratory birds
include the Ruff, Avocet, Little Stint, Kentish Plover,
and the Little Ringed Plover.
Wintering Birds: Many species of
birds stay for longer periods of time, making Azraq
their winter home. One such species is the large,
majestic, Crane. In flight, the Crane looks enormous,
with long wings, an outstretched neck and long
projecting legs. You can often hear its load, nasal
trumpet blasts in the distance, announcing its advance.
Cranes migrate in family flocks, flying in V-shaped
formation or in a staggered line. In the spring, Cranes
perform a grand courtship dance, in which they raise
their plumes, make trumpeting noises and bow deeply.
There are also many species of wintering ducks,
including the Shelduck, Shoveler, Teal, Wigeon, and
Mallard. In autumn or winter you may also spot the Coot,
diving for plant stalks and small creatures.
Breeding Birds: With the
restoration of the marchland, several species of birds
have returned to breed in Azraq, such as the Hoopoe
Lark, Cetti's Warbler, the Desert Finch and the Marsh
Harrier. The salt mounds formed in the mudflats in the
dry season provide important areas for breeding birds.
The sighting of one breeding pair of Marbled Teal, a
rare, globally threatened bird, was a particularly
exciting discovery.
The Rare Birds of Jordan
Expedition: is 4 hours, 2 km hiking. Touring Azraq
wetland Reserve and Shaumari Reserve. Binoculars are
necessary. Advised to visit in February, March, April,
May, October, and Nov. (Guided, maximum no. 20)
|
