The limestone promontory of Deir el-Nouriyeh 50km north of Beirut, Lebanon are a main stopping point for birds on their annual migration: notable bird species include the White Pelican and Purple Heron.

Submarine freshwater springs off the coast at Ras Chekka are thought to enhance the biodiversity of the waters. The surrounding area is used for the cultivation of olives.

The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands came into force for Lebanon on 16 August 1999. Lebanon presently has 4 sites: Ammiq Swamp, Deir el-Nouriyeh, Palm Islands Nature Reserve, Tyre Coast Nature Reserve, designated as Wetlands of International Importance, with a total area of 1075 hectares.

Reference: www.ramsar.org

Ramsar site no. 979.