Wild mammals in the Gaza Strip, with particular reference to Wadi Gaza

Abstract

Mammalian fauna are considered good indicators of the degree of anthropogenic disturbance to the various ecosystems. Many mammalian species disappeared in the Gaza Strip during the last 5-6 decades and no efforts have been made to stop such disappearance. The present work aims at surveying the remnant wild mammals in the Gaza Strip; particularly in Wadi Gaza as a natural area. A total number of 15 mammalian species belonging to 5 orders and 11 families were recorded. Most mammalian species were of small sizes and residents. Seven disappeared mammalian species were mentioned by locals. The causes of disappearance were mostly anthropogenic and included the limited area of the Gaza Strip, over-population, residential and agricultural encroachment on the expense of natural areas and the over-exploitation of natural resources of which hunting was and stills a common practice threatening wildlife. The Israeli Occupation is still adversely affecting wildlife ecology in the area. Finally, the authors recommend improving cooperation of different parties to enhance the public awareness and to implement environmental laws and legislations to conserve nature and to protect wildlife.