The Eilat Mountains and the Southern Arava in southern Israel have long been recognized as one of the most important watchpoints to enjoy and study bird migration along the Eastern Flyway between Eurasia and Africa. An extraordinary concentration of migratory birds which use the region (mainly during spring and autumn) as well as a rich and diverse collection of desert and sub-tropical species have made the region one of the most important bird-watching areas in Israel and Western Palearctic. Other than the migrants that fill the skies, Southern Israel is also home to many exciting resident species which can be hard to find anywhere else. The dramatic outline of the Rift Valley, and the variety of natural and man-made habitats serves as a corridor for millions of migrant birds and home for nearly 400 species.
Excellent birding can be enjoyed year-round here. The extreme desert which can seem very hostile is, in fact, full of life and one only needs to explore a little in order to witness the wonders of birdlife in this vast desert land. Here the authors present their own personal knowledge of the region with some highlights regarding where and when and more importantly what to do and what not to do when birding this amazing region.