Birdlife BACK

Elat is the best place within the Mediterranean Basin and one of the best places in the world for observing bird migration. Birds that migrate between Eastern Europe and Africa in spring and autumn use warm air currents along the Syrian African Rift Valley. Some of the migrants rest on their way, in the area of the Salt Ponds and in the nearby agricultural fields of Kibbutz Elot. In spring 1986 more than one million (!) raptors, from 30 different species, were counted over Elat. Elat is also an excellent spot to observe Passerines, Water Fowl and Sea Birds: more than 400 different species have been recorded. For birdwatchers and nature lovers there is a signposted path for observing the birds, a Ringing Station for Raptors and Passerines, and in addition a huge park is being prepared for visitors.

Visitors to Elat who are interested in birds should get in touch with the Birdwatching Centre, which provides guided tours and information on an autumn migration survey and a bird-ringing station. Open: Sun.-Thurs. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., 5 - 7 p.m. Fri. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.