Birkat Al-Arayes - Al-Hamma Al-Jordanian

Birkat al-Arayes is located in the far north of the national territory of Jordan, 1 km north of the Yarmouk River, and 2 km east of the Jordanian Hamma site.

It was given this name due to the conduct of a number of marriage and wedding ceremonies among the people of the neighboring area (the village of Al-Mukhiba Al-Fawqa) on its banks from the “Broom Bath” and “Al-Zafah” and the “Al-Fadra” from there to the village.

Its distinction and uniqueness is due to the fact that it is the only natural, geological, cavernous pond in Jordan. Its area is about (10) square dunums, and its area with the land around it is estimated at (32) square dunums, and its depth is estimated at (50) meters. Rainwater is the main source of its water, and it is used In irrigating agricultural crops, Lake Al-Araes possesses natural characteristics and features and a diversity of forms of wild and aquatic life, including unique, rare and endangered species. The surrounding area has stunning natural beauty, especially in the spring.

As for the biodiversity, the most important of which is the aquatic turtles that are found in the pond and that belong to the family ( Bataguridae ) and whose scientific name is (Mauremys rivulata ), these turtles are limited in distribution, suffer from food scarcity and are sensitive to environmental pollutants. As for frogs, there are two types of them: the green toad and the frog. Swamp and tree frog.

It is considered one of the important sites for birds in the Middle East, and it is a suitable place for bird watching enthusiasts, as it is located on the path of migratory birds; The course of the Syrian-African rift (Rifting Hole), which is considered the second most important path for the migration of soaring birds in the world. More than (1.5) million birds cross it annually during the spring and autumn migration season between Europe and Africa through the Rift Valley.

There are also more than 100 species of resident and migratory birds, such as: the Izmirli fisherman, the spotted fisherman, the kingfisher, the gray heron, the cattle heron, the little conch, the night heron, the little white heron, the Shami plover, the Abu Dhafar plover, the European beaver, the coot, the water hen, the dipper, and several types of ducks. and many more.

. Most of the species of reptiles recorded in Jordan are found in and around the pond, such as haratins, geckos, gnats, snakes, and vipers.

As for the rare species of mammals that are available in this lake, such as: the Egyptian mongoose, the red fox, the wolf, the jackal, the striped hyena, the forest cat, and the European hedgehog. Note that the forest cat and the water fox are endangered animals.

This is an invitation to visit this rare environmental landmark.