A Morning at the Jerusalem Bird Observatory: Nature in the City
- Ofra Morashty
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
A Magical Morning in the Heart of Jerusalem
Sometimes the most memorable mornings happen when children, birds, and I all cross paths. On a quiet morning in Jerusalem, I found myself once again walking toward the Jerusalem Bird Observatory, one of the city’s hidden gems where nature in the city thrives.
After exchanging a cheerful “good morning” with a Knesset guard, I strolled down the narrow path leading to the entrance. There, a blooming squill stood proudly with its delicate white blossoms, a gentle reminder that the season was shifting. Even before I reached the main hide, nature was already whispering its welcome.
Learning Through Birds: A Morning of Discovery
Near the entrance, a group of elders, parents and children gathered around an expert guide. The morning’s activity was bird banding—a chance to observe science and wonder coming together. With great care, the guide placed a tiny ring around a warbler’s leg before releasing it back into the sky.
The children’s faces lit up as the small bird spread its wings. That brief moment, when the bird returned to freedom, felt magical. Watching their excitement, I realized how powerful this observatory is—not just for research, but also for education and inspiration.
Photography, Children, and Shared Curiosity
Inside the wooden bird hide, I set up my telephoto lens and waited quietly. A few curious visitors noticed the large camera and struck up a warm conversation. Soon, several children gathered near me, eager to watch.
Suddenly, a spotted flycatcher appeared, darting between branches before pausing just long enough for me to capture a photograph. Excited, the children pulled out their own cameras and phones, proudly showing me their pictures.
I was deeply touched and happy when one boy told me he had spent his entire summer vacation at the Jerusalem Bird Observatory. His amazing knowledge, passion for birds and photography reminded me that this place is more than just a sanctuary for wildlife—it is also a sanctuary for human curiosity and connection.
Birds and Wildlife at the Observatory
Looking at the pond, I was greeted by a peaceful scene. Water lilies floated on the surface while a turtle climbed onto a log to soak in the sun. Overhead, a great tit flitted from branch to branch, its bright yellow belly shining against the muted grays of the branches.
At the feeders, sparrows gathered in cheerful groups. Some cracked sunflower seeds with sharp precision, while others splashed playfully in the small water station nearby. The variety of birds in the city always amazes me—from common sparrows to seasonal migrants, they each find a way to call this observatory home.
Nature in the City: A Shared Harmony
What makes the Jerusalem Bird Observatory so special is the harmony it creates between people and wildlife. The air was filled with cheerful conversations, children’s laughter, and the layered songs of countless birds. For a moment, the boundaries between the human world and the natural world seemed to blur.
This observatory is a reminder that nature in the city is not only possible but also thriving. Nestled in the heart of Jerusalem, right next to government buildings and busy streets, it offers refuge for birds and people alike.
Why the Jerusalem Bird Observatory Matters
For me, the Jerusalem Bird Observatory is not just a place, it is an experience. It shows that even in a bustling city, there are spaces where curiosity, connection, and joy can flourish.
Here, children discover their love for wildlife, adults find peace in observing nature, and birds find safe places to rest and nest. It is a living example of how birds and people share the same city, each adding to its unique story.
So, the next time you are in Jerusalem, take a moment to visit this magical corner. You might leave with new knowledge, a camera full of photos, or simply a renewed sense of wonder. Either way, you’ll discover that in the middle of concrete and noise, nature has found its voice—and it sings beautifully.
you can read more about the The Nili and David Jerusalem Bird Observatory:
you can visit our nature photography art collection at: https://www.o-natureobserver.com/photography
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