On 28 July 2024, World Nature Conservation Day serves as a crucial reminder of the collective duty to protect the planet’s natural resources and diverse ecosystems. Conservation is not just the responsibility of environmental organizations; it is something that everyone can support in their daily lives. Simple actions, such as reducing single-use plastics with reusable bags and bottles, conserving water through mindful usage, and supporting local produce and sustainable products, can make a significant impact. By adopting these habits and advocating for eco-friendly practices in their community, people can help create a healthier, more sustainable world for future generations.
Coinciding with World Nature Conservation Day, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability’s Animal Rehabilitation Unit celebrates the one-year anniversary of the hyenas. The hyena cubs were received on 30 July 2023, after being confiscated by the Environmental Police due to illegal trading.
In collaboration with the Environment Quality Authority and the Palestine Society for Environment and Sustainable Development, the team returned to the cave in Hebron from where the hyena cubs were stolen, in an attempt to reunite them with their mother. Unable to locate the mother, the team brought the hyena cubs back to their facility for rehabilitation. Extensive consultations with regional and international experts ensured the cubs received optimal care, aimed at preparing them for eventual release into the wild once they were deemed ready.
During their initial months in care, the cubs received essential medical attention, adhered strictly to feeding schedules, minimized human interaction, and were taught crucial survival skills. Despite dedicated efforts, it became evident that these cubs would not safely adapt to life in the wild. Consequently, following consultation and agreement with the Environment Quality Authority, three of the five cubs were transferred to Qalqilya Zoo in the northern part of the West Bank, while the remaining two cubs were retained at the institute in the southern part of the West Bank to serve educational purposes, aimed at increasing awareness about this vulnerable species.
The institute then incorporated the hyenas into their educational initiatives by featuring them in their botanical garden tours. The hyenas now play a central role, serving as ambassadors for their species. They highlight their critical role in ecosystem health by scavenging carcasses, thereby controlling disease spread and contributing to the preservation of nature in Palestine.
Throughout the past year, the institute organized six educational activities specifically focused on hyenas. They also raised awareness about this species through numerous social media posts, including on International Hyena Day. Additionally, they directly engaged with over 1,500 museum visitors who had the opportunity to see and learn about the hyenas firsthand.
This milestone underscores the institute’s dedication to wildlife care and highlights the positive outcomes of their focused rehabilitation efforts. As PIBS commemorate its 10th anniversary this year, they aim to inspire others to join them in supporting the vital mission of environmental protection and nature conservation.
Visit their website (https://www.palestinenature.org/visit/) to discover more about hyenas and the conservation efforts in Palestine.
