At a time when headlines are dominated by fighting and escalation in the north, a small and moving story sheds light on another side of the civilian front: the common salamander, a sensitive and endangered species in Israel, was saved from serious harm and continues to fight for its life under VIP home care.
The common salamander (Salamandra infraimmaculata) was found injured beside a road in the village of Hurfeish, apparently hit by a passing vehicle. Alert citizens called the Nature and Parks Authority inspectors, who quickly transferred it to KKL-JNF’s AWRC in Hula Lake Park – a joint initiative with Tel Hai College and the University of Kiryat Shmona in the Galilee.
Upon arrival at the AWRC, it was found that its condition was complex: a pelvic fracture, broken tail segments, and a deep wound in its lower body. The veterinary team immediately began supportive care, including pain relief, fluids, and wound treatment, and placed it in a dedicated terrarium with controlled humidity, temperature, and substrate – critical conditions for this sensitive species.
The situation in the north disrupted the AWRC’s normal routine, but not the commitment of the staff. Understanding that this is an endangered and particularly sensitive species, and unable to leave the salamander without close supervision, the head caretaker, May Avrahami, decided to bring it to her home to continue care under emergency conditions:"Home care for the salamander during such chaotic days carries double meaning: caring for a beautiful, endangered species and providing personal healing within a difficult reality. I bring it clean water from the nearby Hatzbani Stream, make sure its substrate is clean, try to feed it, administer medication, and most importantly check the temperature and humidity several times a day. Rain is expected soon in the north, and I hope we can safely return it to the place where it was found."
Other patients are at the AWRC, including a female common buzzard suffering a wing fracture and a long-eared owl scheduled for complex, innovative treatment to allow natural feather regrowth. All the animals and birds continue to receive optimal care, even under these challenging conditions.
Dr. Rona Nadler Valensi, head veterinarian and director of the AWRC, said:"The center continues to operate even during combat days. Our commitment to rehabilitation and returning animals to the wild remains strong. We hope for calmer days ahead when we can return our patients to their safe, natural homes."
Einav Shlomit Rubin, field manager at KKL-JNF Hula Lake Park, said:"Nature doesn’t stop. We are now at the beginning of the spring migration and nesting season. Spring is a season of growth, renewal, and new life. Nature allows us to heal and take a break from daily challenges. KKL has installed live cameras in Hula, streaming 24/7 on our website, so even if you can’t visit the reserve, you can disconnect for a moment from the stress and enjoy nature and the wonderful birds."
Hula Lake Park is one of Israel’s most important habitats for both birds and other wildlife, offering them a safe place rich in food. The AWRC provides crucial support for animals and birds in northern Israel.
If you find an injured or distressed wild animal or bird, contact the Nature and Parks Authority hotline at 3639, or (for the Upper Galilee and Golan area) the Hula Center clinic at 050-3702108 between 08:00–16:00.