By Loay Al-Zube
Go to Petra in Jordan For Bird Watching!
Jordan has a unique location in the Middle East at the tip of the Arabian Peninsula, where the edges of three continents meet: Asia, Africa, and Europe. This makes the city of Petra, a one-of-a-kind UNESCO World Heritage Site, a natural haven and an emigrant mecca for many kinds of immigrating and local bird populations. The natural environment in Petra, characterized by its stunning pink sandstone cliffs, provides a perfect habitat for various species. Just as Petra blends seamlessly into its surrounding landscape, so does Jordan’s national bird: the Sinai rosefinch. This bird not only inhabits the Sinai Desert in Egypt and Petra in Jordan in large numbers but is also known for its beautiful pink color, complementing the city’s hues. Rose bird for the Rose City; don’t you love Jordan’s style? The thriving natural environment in Petra is a testament to Jordan’s dedication to preserving its cultural and ecological heritage.
Birdlife International Middle East‘s role is to raise awareness of important bird populations and the biodiversity areas in the Middle East region. Many of which you’ll be able to visit on a birding holiday in Petra, Jordan, guided by local ornithologists. Birdlife International Middle East leading partner on the ground in Jordan is the Jordanian Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), which supports reserves and organizes community involvement across the country and advocates for the conservation of biodiverse landscapes. To date, There are about 18 important bird & biodiversity areas in Jordan with about 16 globally threatened birds to watch and protect! A must see if you asked me when you visit Petra!
This is an excellent activity for nature and bird lovers, go to Petra in Jordan for bird watching! Of the bird species there: the Black Kite, Egyptian Vulture, Short-toed Eagle, Lesser Spotted Eagle, Steppe Eagle, Steppe Buzzards (hundreds), European Bee-eater, Alpine Swift, Hoopoe, Red-rumped Swallow, Wryneck, Black-eared Wheatear, Palestine Sunbird, Blue Rock-Thrush, Woodchat shrike, Spanish, and Rock Sparrows.
Wildlife in Petra, Jordan, For You To Explore!
Observations by fans and travelers to Petra tell the many wonderful stories of other animals, such as rabbits, wild cats, wolves, lions, lynxes, ibex, deer, and others. Unfortunately, most of these wild animals have disappeared due to overhunting and the continuous increase in human activities in the park. Wild animals lives with domesticated animals like camels, donkeys, horses, goats, etc., and sheep in harmony with nature in Petra, Jordan. Something worth exploring and documenting!
Wild and domesticated animals like camels, donkeys, horses, goats, etc., and sheep live in harmony with nature. Unfortunately, animal abuse and overuse is one of the direct causes of deterioration in the number of camels, donkeys, and horses in and around the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. Petra has hundreds of archaeological treasures. Animals usually carry tourists in Petra in their way to the monastery, the high place of sacrifice, and to Al-khabta. Animals with hard hooves, such as horses, mules, and donkeys are used regularly in Petra’s archeological sites. This is causing a gradual and steady destruction of the rosy city natural and historical locations. Your care, careful use and observation are highly appreciated!
Animals are an important part of the ecological context of the Petra Archaeological Park, and there is a need to protect this Petra’s wild and biological diversity. Different civilizations around Petra have used animals in their daily routines and activities. Their lives, and sometimes their livelihoods, depended on these animals. The Nabateans who built Petra were foremost among them. Because of its centermost location among 3 contents, the city of Petra in Jordan has always been and will continue to be a natural habitat for many animal species and bird populations. On-site conservation efforts are a must!!!
Because of the increased park use, there is an increasing impact on tourists’ experiences, the city’s wild and biological diversity, and on the local populations (People and the wildlife). For example, in the last century, about 122 different bird species were recorded in the park. Now, 16 species are globally threatened birds. Petra was even home to the ostrich.
The Climate in Petra, Jordan – Quick Facts:
The climate of Petra is hot in summer and semi-cool in spring. Rainfall is heaviest in winter (especially in December). About 362 mm (14.2 inches) of rain falls annually. During April, May, October, and November, you are most likely to have good weather with a pleasant average temperature of 20 degrees Celsius (68 °F) and 26 degrees Celsius (79 °F).
Which is the Warmest Month in Petra, Jordan?
August is the warmest month of the year in Petra. The average maximum temperature in August is 34°C (93°F)
Which is the Coldest Month in Petra, Jordan?
The coldest month in Petra is January, with an average maximum temperature of 14°C (57°F).
Which is the Wettest Month in Petra, Jordan?
The wettest month in Petra is January, with 46mm (1.8inch) of rainfall.
Which is the Driest Month in Petra, Jordan?
The driest month in Petra is August, with 0mm (0.0inch) precipitation.
Join the 4Petra Community
At 4Petra.com, we are dedicated to raising awareness about Petra’s significance and the challenges it faces. By joining our community, you can stay informed, participate in discussions, and contribute to initiatives aimed at preserving this world heritage icon.
Contact us if you have questions, comments, about the Natural Environment in Petra or just plain want to talk.