Migratory Birds
A migratory bird hike on October 31 in the Beit She’an Valley. A route of approximately 10 km with birdwatching and visits to historical sites.
Hello everyone!
We have wonderful news. They have already arrived!
Who are they, you ask? Pygmy cormorants, black storks, pelicans, night herons, glossy ibises, and many other migratory birds.
That’s why, on October 31, we are heading to a land of rivers, bodies of water, and bird migrations. We will hike one of the most beautiful routes in the Beit She’an Valley, see its winged visitors, and visit several significant historical sites.
So, let’s take it from the beginning.
We will start the route not far from Beit She’an, near Basalt Canyon and the old eastern bridge over Nahal Harod. It is often called a Roman bridge, although the current bridge was most likely built during the Ottoman period and was used until 1994. Here we will talk about the river and the roads that crossed this valley over the centuries.
We will then walk along the bed of Nahal Harod. On one side there will be the river, and on the other, agricultural reservoirs and fishponds. This is where our first winged companions will begin to appear. Waterfowl and birds of prey are particularly common in this area.
We will talk about the great autumn migration and try to observe those who have chosen this valley as a stopover. Of course, birds do not fill out participant lists, so we cannot promise the exact lineup. But it certainly won’t be boring.
We will pass through a small eucalyptus grove and reach a lookout point. From here, there is a wonderful view of the Beit She’an Valley, Jordan, and the Gilead Mountains.
Here we will talk about the history and geography of the region, and then take a break in the shade of the palm trees. There will be tea, coffee, and, of course, our traditional uga.
After the break, we will follow a trail between reservoirs and fishponds. This is where the migratory-bird season reveals itself in all its glory. We will observe, photograph, and learn why Israel has become one of the main aerial routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
At the end of the route, we will return to the cars.
As a historical bonus, subject to prior arrangement, we will visit an ancient synagogue near Kibbutz Maoz Haim. It was built about 1,700 years ago, rebuilt several times, and served the local Jewish community for more than three centuries. The remains of the building and mosaics featuring Jewish symbols have been preserved there.
After that, tired, happy, and most likely with a hundred photographs of birds, we will head home.
ABOUT THE ROUTE
Distance: approximately 10 kilometers.
Elevation gain: approximately 100 meters.
The route is not difficult in terms of terrain, but participants must be prepared to cover the entire distance. Part of the route passes through open terrain.
WHAT TO BRING
- 3 liters of water per person
- Comfortable clothing
- Closed trekking shoes
- Head covering
- Sunscreen
- Medication for chronic conditions
- A snack, if desired
- Binoculars and a camera, if available
HIKE RULES
Alcohol and drugs are prohibited.
You must follow safety procedures, not pass the guide, and not fall behind the person bringing up the rear.
Entering agricultural reservoirs, going beyond barriers, approaching border installations, and leaving the route without the guide’s permission are prohibited.
Do not feed or approach the birds, and try not to make noise while observing them.
Do not litter, protect nature, and respect the other participants.
The route may be changed due to weather, the security situation, or trail conditions.
Personal insurance is not included in the participation fee.
Registering for the hike means agreeing to the rules. A participant who violates safety rules may be prevented from continuing along the route.
PARTICIPATION FEE
120 ₪ per person.
For soldiers and teenagers aged 12 to 18: 90 ₪.
Children under 12 and pets participate free of charge.
Cleanliness discount: 20 ₪.
Participation with a pet must be arranged in advance. Pets must be kept on a leash along the route.
Those who wish will have the option of arriving on Friday, October 30, and spending the night near the meeting point. All details will be provided upon registration.
Registration is open until Thursday, October 29, so that we can properly organize the logistics of the hike.
Register by phone: 053-952-7992, WhatsApp, Zhenya.
Places are limited!
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