Zoologists are recommending that the Palestine mountain gazelle should be placed on the endangered list amid a drastic decline in its numbers in the last fifteen years. Gazelles, the Middle East’s most iconic mammals, whose habitat is in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, have dropped to about 2,000 identified individuals. The tan, white and black gazelles are a familiar sight in the Jerusalem forest.
According to the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, the population in Israel has declined from more than 10,000 to just 3,000 in 2008 – a sharp decline that appears to be continuing. The gazelle – originally named during the British Palestine Mandate – is regarded as scientifically significant because it is believed to be unique to Israel and a few surrounding countries.
The gazelle has suffered from loss of habitat due to construction as well as predation and road accidents.
Facts about Palestine
- Palestine is situated at a strategic location between Egypt, Syria and Arabia.
- It was the birthplace of Judaism and Christianity.
- Mahmoud Abbas is the current President of Palestine.
- Rami Hamdallah is the current Prime Minister of Palestine.
Test Your Knowledge
Name the Palestine Leader who received Nobel Peace Prize in 1994?
