The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) established an Animal Rehabilitation Unit in 2019, dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating numerous threatened animals. The unit has provided care for a diverse array of species, including mammals (foxes, hyenas, European badgers, mongooses, and bats), birds (golden eagles, eagle owls, black kites, crows), and reptiles (snakes). The institute collaborates closely with the Environmental Police, the Environmental Quality Authority, and the Palestine Society for Environment and Sustainable Development to ensure the well-being of these animals.
Recently, the Animal Rehabilitation Unit has been caring for two striped hyenas and one fox. The hyenas were confiscated by the Environmental Police in July 2023 due to illegal trading activities in Hebron. With their mother unable to be located, the cubs were taken in by the unit. For the first six months of their life, the hyenas received comprehensive medical care, strict feeding schedules, minimal human contact, and essential survival skill training. However, it became clear that the hyenas would not be able to safely adapt to the wild. Consequently, three of the five cubs were transferred to Qalqilya Zoo for educational purposes and to raise awareness about this vulnerable species. The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability continues to care for the remaining two hyenas.
On Friday, 14 June 2024, the unit received a fox suffering from injuries and malnutrition. After 17 days of rehabilitation, the fox was successfully released back into its natural habitat on Monday, 1 July 2024. This achievement underscores the vital role of the Animal Rehabilitation Unit in caring for injured and endangered animals and reintegrating them into their natural environments.
