ATHENS, Greece — An unexpected emblem of collaboration, the barn owl is gaining international recognition as it bridges the gaps created by conflict in the Middle East, bringing together Arab and Israeli scholars.
Recently, experts from twelve nations convened in Greece to discuss this unique initiative aimed at protecting the barn owl, a project that originated decades ago through cooperation between Israel and Jordan.
Known for its distinctive moon-like face and small size, the barn owl is a highly efficient predator that helps manage pest populations, particularly rodents, thereby aiding agricultural endeavors. According to Yossi Leshem, an emeritus professor from Tel Aviv University’s School of Zoology, “A pair of barn owls can consume anywhere between 2,000 to 6,000 rodents annually, allowing farmers to reduce their reliance on pesticides.” However, urban development has led to a decline in barn owl populations by removing the habitats they need for nesting.
In response to this decline, conservation efforts aim to mitigate the impact of urbanization by establishing networks of artificial nests, primarily using modified plywood boxes, and by advocating for reduced use of pesticides that threaten these predatory birds.
Leshem initiated the nesting program in the early 1980s at a communal farm. “What began with 14 nesting boxes in one kibbutz has expanded into a national initiative with over 5,000 boxes in Israel and collaborations in Jordan, Palestine, Cyprus, and Morocco,” he explained.
In 2002, he joined forces with retired General Mansour Abu Rashid to introduce the nesting boxes in Jordan. Leverage was obtained through the implementation of radio transmitters to monitor the owls, further enhancing the project’s tracking capabilities.
“Barn owls disregard borders; they travel freely between Jordan, Palestine, and Israel,” observer Leshem noted. “They represent a spirit of collaboration.” The ongoing project is vital in a region that serves as a crucial nexus for bird migration.
Despite the backdrop of ongoing conflicts, including the recent tensions in Gaza, Arab and Israeli scientists have maintained their collaborative efforts, adapting to digital communication when conditions demanded it.
Officials at the conference indicated that the ongoing conflict has led to significant habitat destruction, particularly in Lebanon, impacting nesting areas near the Israeli frontier. “We never stop; we just keep moving forward,” remarked Leshem, highlighting the project’s resilience.
Another hurdle faced involved age-old local beliefs regarding owls, often viewed as omens of misfortune. To counteract this perception in Jordan, local imams were engaged in efforts to educate rural communities.
Abu Rashid shared, “We initiated educational programs in schools and universities, fostering community engagement and involving women’s associations, as they play a crucial role within families.” Activities included children creating art featuring barn owls to promote acceptance.
Both Leshem and Abu Rashid believe that scientific endeavors can pave the way for collaboration, even among those who are traditionally adversaries. After serving as a senior negotiator for the Jordan-Israel peace accords, the retired general now devotes his time to initiatives aimed at uniting individuals across the Middle East. “I transformed my life post-military, and we continue working towards bringing people together. I am hopeful for success,” he expressed.
Now in their late 70s, both men have presented the barn owl initiative to various global leaders, including the late President Jimmy Carter, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and Pope Francis.
Swiss scientist Alexandre Roulin noted that similar barn owl conservation projects are gaining popularity in Europe, contributing to the recovery of owl populations after traditional nesting sites in barns and attics have been lost.
“This bird is universally widespread; the model we’ve introduced can be adapted in other regions, including the U.S. and Asia,” professor Roulin stated at the conference. He also emphasized the owl’s unique features, mentioning how they are one of the few nocturnal predators that are white, a trait that may help them startle their prey by reflecting moonlight.
Barn owls possess exceptional vision, capable of swiveling their heads up to 270 degrees, providing a significant advantage over human field of view capabilities. Their distinctive screams further underscore their reputation as formidable hunters.
The recent conference, which ended on Friday, marked its third iteration since 2018 when there were only representatives from four countries. This year’s meeting welcomed delegates from Germany, Georgia, and Ukraine, with hopes of expanding participation to include many more nations in the upcoming event in Geneva, Switzerland. The attendees, who also visited agricultural sectors in central Greece, engaged in discussions about various topics, such as employing “soft release” methods for transitioning zoo-bred owls into the wild.
Vasileios Bontzorlos, the head of the Greek environmental organization TYTO and host of the conference, noted the growing interest in the barn owl conservation initiatives. “Agricultural officials are increasingly receptive to natural methods, and this transformation is monumental for us,” he reflected.
Looking back at his experiences, Bontzorlos expressed admiration for the collaborative efforts. “Some years back, I sat at a table with people from Israel, Jordan, and Palestine. Hosting these conversations in Greece inspires hope at a time when negativity often dominates the headlines. It is genuinely heartwarming.”
