Aqaba: The Aqaba Bird Observatory (ABO) said it recorded 108 bird species in Ayla Oasis during the spring and autumn migration seasons.
According to Jordan News Agency, the ABO highlighted the area's growing environmental importance as a "key stopover" for migratory birds along one of the world's major migration routes between Asia and Africa. The findings, detailed in the observatory's 2025 bird monitoring report, showed that the recorded species included 14 year-round residents, 57 regularly observed during migration seasons, and 37 less common species seen during peak periods.
The report further noted that Ayla Oasis has become home to more than 130 bird species, representing about one-third of all bird species recorded in Jordan and nearly half of those found in Aqaba Governorate. Over a decade of continuous monitoring has documented around 270 bird species in Ayla Oasis and the Aqaba Bird Observatory, reinforcing Aqaba's position as a "major crossing point" on one of the world's most important migration flyways, with millions of birds passing through its skies annually.
In a statement, Ayla Oasis Development Company Executive Director Sahl Dudin emphasized that the findings reflect Ayla's progress in building an integrated model for sustainable development. This model focuses on creating balanced natural environments that support biodiversity and align with global environmental best practices. Dudin highlighted that attracting a large and diverse number of birds, including threatened species, confirms Ayla's growing status as a prominent environmental destination on the sustainable tourism map.
Dudin also mentioned that these achievements are part of a long-term commitment to protecting and enhancing the environment while developing quality visitor experiences that allow people to engage with nature responsibly and sustainably.
In turn, Aqaba Bird Observatory Director Firas Rahahleh stated that the report's findings reflect the positive impact of integrated efforts between environmental and development stakeholders in Aqaba. Rahahleh noted that wetlands, particularly artificial ones, have played a crucial role in attracting rare and threatened species and supporting their breeding. He added that this progress demonstrates the area's transformation into an "integrated" ecosystem capable of sustainably supporting the bird life cycle by offsetting degraded habitats and providing suitable environments for different species.