Nestled in the heart of Israel's coastal plain, Alexander Stream National Park is one of the region's largest and most vital natural treasures. Flowing for 32 kilometers, the stream winds its way from its tributaries in the Nablus area, eventually emptying into the Mediterranean Sea, just north of the Beit Yanai coast. Rich with wildlife and scenic beauty, the park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Among the park's many inhabitants, the rare Nile softshell turtles, found in the stream’s pristine waters, stand out as one of the park’s most fascinating and significant species.
The Origin of the Alexander Stream's Name
The Alexander Stream, also known as Nahal Alexander, has two compelling legends behind its name. The first attributes it to Alexander Yannai, a Hasmonean king who conquered the area during the Hasmonean period. The second, more recent theory links the name to Iskander Abu Zabura, a wealthy 19th-century landowner and watermelon merchant. Abu Zabura is said to have used the stream as a trade route to export watermelons to Egypt and Lebanon. His port, located at the mouth of the stream, played a crucial role in the region's trade history.
A Sanctuary for Wildlife
Over the years, Alexander Stream has become a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife. Fish, waterfowl, nutria, and swamp turtles call the stream their home, but none are more remarkable than the Nile softshell turtle, a protected species whose population has dwindled in recent decades. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, Alexander Stream now boasts the largest population of Nile softshell turtles in Israel.
The Nile Softshell Turtle: A Rare Gem
The Nile softshell turtle, also known as the "soft-shelled turtle" due to its distinctive flat, leathery shell, is a fascinating species native to freshwater habitats such as rivers, swamps, and shallow streams. Once common along Israel’s coastal streams, their numbers have significantly decreased. Today, one of the few places where you can witness these majestic creatures is at the famous "Turtle Bridge" in Alexander Stream National Park, a viewing platform built in the 1930s by settlers from Kfar Vitkin.
An adult Nile softshell turtle can grow up to 120 cm in length and weigh around 50 kg. Their unique body structure allows them to blend seamlessly into their aquatic environment. Equipped with a long, snorkel-like trunk, they can remain mostly submerged while still breathing and keeping an eye on their surroundings thanks to eyes placed high on their heads.
Turtle Conservation Efforts
Conservation efforts by Israel's Nature and Parks Authority have been key in protecting the softshell turtles in Alexander Stream. Measures include creating secure nesting sites, relocating nests to safer areas, and ensuring that newly hatched turtles are released directly into the stream.
During the breeding season, from May to June, female turtles emerge from the stream at night, digging deep holes in the sandy banks to lay between 30 and 50 eggs. After covering the nest, the female returns to the stream, leaving the eggs to incubate for around two months. The hatchlings, measuring about 5 cm in length, instinctively head towards the water immediately after hatching.
Best Time to See the Turtles
While turtles can be seen year-round, they are most active during the warmer months, particularly between April and December. In the winter, being cold-blooded reptiles, they become less active as temperatures drop. For visitors looking to observe these rare creatures in action, summer is the ideal time.
Other Attractions in Alexander Stream National Park
Beyond the turtles, Alexander Stream National Park offers many other natural and historical wonders. One highlight is the Samara Ruins, located atop a kurkar (calcareous sandstone) hill. The remains of a building from the late 19th century, likely an Ottoman-era customs station, still stand here. Visitors can explore the caves carved into the hill’s southern slope from earlier periods of kurkar mining. During the winter and spring months, the surrounding landscape blooms with vibrant flowers, adding to the park’s scenic charm.
Conclusion
Alexander Stream National Park is not only a natural gem but also a vital habitat for the endangered Nile softshell turtles. The park's efforts in preserving these creatures and its historical significance make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Whether you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the turtles at Turtle Bridge or simply enjoy the serene landscapes, Alexander Stream offers an unforgettable experience of Israel's rich ecological and cultural heritage.
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