Page 13 - Discover Israel Magazine - UK edition 2019
P. 13
Young ostriches in the reserve
only to become an extremely common species Ostriches also live in the Hai-Bar reserve. The 90, and the entrance to the reserve is marked
in the Judah desert and mountains of Eilat. ostriches of the Mediterranean are smaller with a clear sign. The tour through the reserve
than those of Africa and are entirely extinct. is conducted in a private car from which there
The story of the wild donkey who lived in the The ostriches of Hai-Bar, imported from is a view of the landscape and the animals.
Negev is unique. We know of at least two Africa, is the biggest bird in the world, and Exiting the vehicle is prohibited, because the
species that lived in the Mediterranean – the ostriches from the Hai-Bar captive breeding animals in the reserve behave similarly to their
African wild donkey and the Asian wild donkey. programme were released into Israel’s wild, wild counterparts.
The distribution of the Asian wild donkey but sadly did not survive.
stretches from Mongolia to Israel. Humans At the entrance to the reserve there is a
have never managed to domesticate the Of the animals that do not exist in Israel, Hai- film screening about its establishment and
animal. Herds of wild animals from Hai-Bar Bar breeds the Sahara Oryx and Addax. operation, where visitors will also receive a CD
have been set free and have managed to Although an animal referred to as Addax and a briefing in several languages, including
adapt well to life in the Negev. The African wild may have been mentioned in the bible, it is Russian and English. Groups can reserve a
donkey is the ancestor of household donkeys doubtful that the Addax of today is the same guide in advance.
- an animal grey in colour with black stripes as the biblical one. The Addax of Hai-Bar can
on its legs. The African Wild Donkey is among be recognised on account of its impressive Campsite
the 100 rarest species in the world and is very horns, which are 30 inches long and have
difficult to populate in captivity. branched antlers. Those who love sleeping under the stars can
pitch a tent in the organised overnight park
The Arabian Oryx is another special animal that The Yotvata Hai Bar Nature Reserve is located and enjoy amenities such as restrooms, warm
can be found at the reserve. It is easily identified 35 kilometers (21 miles) north of Eilat near route showers, picnic tables, fire pits, barbeque
by its long, straight horns, which reach 30 stands and phone charging compartments.
inches in length. From the side, it looks as Taking a trip to Eilat? The park is equipped with a field kitchen and
if it has a single horn and that it may be the Visit the Coral Beach Nature industrial fridge. Lodging is by reservation only
source for legends of mysterious unicorns. The Reserve via the number: +972 (0)8-6373057 or through
Arabian Oryx can go months without drinking. the website for the Israel Nature and Parks
Authority. You can also email: haibar-yotvata@
Colourful underwater gardens in a npa.org.il
marine nature reserve, one of the most
beautiful in the world. A flock of white rams
The reserve, located at the top of the
Eilat Gulf, offers a peek at a wonderful
and multicoloured world.
Bridges built over the reef allow for a D I S C O V E R I S R A E L 13
view of the coral reef, colourful fish, a
large variety of animals, which inhabit
the reef, and its surrounding areas. They
also provide a safe access point for
divers and snorkelers to reach the East
side of the reef, facing the sea.
Visitors have at their disposal beach
services such as: a service shop,
equipment rentals, showers, bathrooms,
shaded areas, beach chairs and beach
beds.
Tel: +972 (0)8 6326422
Email: st.almogim@npa.org.il
