Jabal Bura National Park.

Jabal Bura . Overview

Jabal Bura National Park, located in western Yemen, is a small yet ecologically rich protected area covering approximately 27 square miles (70 square kilometers). Nestled within the rugged mountains of the Tihama region, this park is known for its dramatic terrain, which consists of steep cliffs, deep valleys, and dense forests.

The area is characterized by a mix of evergreen woodlands, acacia trees, and thick shrubs that thrive in the humid microclimate of the highlands. The rocky slopes and the presence of seasonal waterfalls add to the park’s striking natural beauty, making it a unique and scenic destination in the Arabian Peninsula.

The park is home to an impressive diversity of wildlife, particularly for a relatively small area. Among the most notable species found in Jabal Bura are the Arabian leopard, a critically endangered predator that roams the remote parts of the region.

Other mammals include the rock hyrax, baboons, and small carnivores like the caracal. The park is also an important habitat for birdlife, with species such as the Arabian woodpecker, Yemen thrush, and various raptors often spotted among the trees and cliffs. The combination of mountainous terrain and lush vegetation creates an ideal refuge for a wide array of wildlife, many of which are endemic to the Arabian Peninsula.

Jabal Bura National Park is particularly known for its scenic hiking trails, which take visitors through thick forests and up steep slopes with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The dense vegetation and the high-altitude climate provide a refreshing escape from the arid lowlands of Yemen. Visitors can also explore the traditional villages located near the park, where ancient stone houses and terraced farms showcase the region’s cultural heritage.

Birdwatching is another major attraction, as the park’s diverse avian population offers a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts. Due to its ecological significance, the park is also a valuable location for researchers studying Yemen’s biodiversity.

Conservation in Jabal Bura National Park presents both challenges and successes. While the park’s isolation has helped preserve much of its natural beauty, deforestation and habitat degradation remain ongoing concerns due to agricultural expansion and unsustainable land use.

Conservation efforts have been put in place to mitigate these threats, including community-based initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable practices among local residents. The protection of the Arabian leopard is a key focus, with increased monitoring and awareness programs helping to safeguard this rare species.

Despite these challenges, Jabal Bura remains one of Yemen’s most important protected areas, offering a glimpse into the country’s unique ecological landscape.

Park Map

Jabal Bura National Park. Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

The Jabal Bura National Park is an important bird habitat, supporting a variety of resident and migratory species. Its montane forests and rocky cliffs provide nesting sites for raptors, songbirds, and waders. Here are some of the park’s most iconic bird species.

Arabian Woodpecker (Dendrocopos dorae)
An endemic species of the Arabian Peninsula, this small woodpecker is commonly seen foraging on tree trunks for insects in the park’s forests.

Yemen Thrush (Turdus menachensis)
A shy and elusive bird, the Yemen thrush is found in the dense forests of Jabal Bura, where it feeds on insects and berries.

Verreaux’s Eagle (Aquila verreauxii)
A powerful bird of prey, Verreaux’s eagle soars over the park’s cliffs in search of hyraxes, its primary prey.

Arabian Partridge (Alectoris melanocephala)
This ground-dwelling bird is a common sight in the park’s rocky terrain. It forages for seeds and insects while remaining vigilant for predators.

Yemen Warbler (Curruca buryi)
Endemic to Yemen, this small and secretive bird thrives in dense shrubland and wooded areas, feeding on insects and small fruits.

Lappet-faced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotos)
One of the largest vultures in the region, this scavenger plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by consuming carrion and preventing disease spread.

Shining Sunbird (Cinnyris habessinicus)
A brightly colored bird with iridescent plumage, the shining sunbird feeds on nectar and is often seen hovering around flowering plants.

Yemen Serin (Crithagra menachensis)
A small finch-like bird, the Yemen serin is often seen in flocks, feeding on seeds and insects in the park’s open areas.

Short-toed Snake Eagle (Circaetus gallicus)
A skilled hunter, this eagle specializes in catching snakes and other reptiles. It can often be seen soaring over the park’s grasslands.

Brown-necked Raven (Corvus ruficollis)
A highly intelligent bird, the brown-necked raven is known for its adaptability and scavenging behavior. It thrives in a variety of habitats within the park.

Jabal Bura National Park remains a vital refuge for these incredible species, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in Yemen’s unique montane ecosystems.

The Jabal Bura National Park, located in western Yemen, is a biodiversity hotspot known for its unique montane forests, rugged cliffs, and deep valleys. This park is home to a variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians that have adapted to its diverse ecosystems. Below are some of the more popular species that inhabit Jabal Bura National Park.

Arabian Leopard (Panthera pardus nimr)
This critically endangered big cat is one of the rarest leopards in the world. It inhabits the rugged cliffs of the park, where it hunts wild goats, hyraxes, and other small mammals.

Hamadryas Baboon (Papio hamadryas)
A highly social primate, the Hamadryas baboon is commonly seen in the park’s forests and rocky areas. It feeds on fruits, leaves, and small invertebrates and is known for its complex social structures.

Rock Hyrax (Procavia capensis)
Despite its small, rodent-like appearance, the rock hyrax is closely related to elephants. It is found among the park’s rocky outcrops, where it feeds on vegetation and basks in the sun.

Blanford’s Fox (Vulpes cana)
A small and elusive fox, this species is adapted to the rocky desert environment of the park. It primarily feeds on insects, small mammals, and fruits.

Caracal (Caracal caracal schmitzi)
This medium-sized wild cat is known for its striking tufted ears and incredible agility. It preys on birds, rodents, and small ungulates in the park’s forests and grasslands.

Arabian Wolf (Canis lupus arabs)
A subspecies of the grey wolf, the Arabian wolf is smaller and more adapted to arid environments. It is a highly adaptable predator that preys on small mammals and livestock.

African Wildcat (Felis lybica)
The ancestor of the domestic cat, the African wildcat is found in the park’s dense vegetation. It is a nocturnal predator that hunts rodents, birds, and reptiles.

Arabian Spiny Mouse (Acomys cahirinus)
This small rodent, covered in stiff, spiny hairs, is adapted to rocky habitats. It is primarily nocturnal and feeds on seeds, insects, and plant matter.

Yemen Monitor Lizard (Varanus yemenensis)
A large and powerful reptile, the Yemen monitor lizard thrives in the park’s rocky landscapes, preying on insects, small mammals, and carrion.

Arabian Cobra (Naja arabica)
This venomous snake is found in the park’s forests and rocky outcrops. It is known for its hood-spreading defensive display and primarily preys on rodents, birds, and other reptiles.