Azraq Wetland Reserve, established in 1978 by Jordan’s Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), is a 74-square-kilometer oasis situated in the heart of Jordan’s eastern desert. The reserve’s name, “Azraq,” meaning “blue” in Arabic, reflects its lush marshlands and shimmering pools that historically served as a crucial stopover for migratory birds travelling between Africa and Eurasia. Notably, the reserve is home to the Azraq Killifish (Aphanius sirhani), Jordan’s only endemic vertebrate species.

In the 1960s, water extraction to support Amman’s growing population led to the depletion of Azraq’s natural springs, culminating in their drying up by 1992. This ecological collapse resulted in a significant decline in migratory bird populations and the loss of native species like the water buffalo. In response, the RSCN initiated restoration efforts, including the creation of artificial springs, to rehabilitate the wetlands and attract wildlife back to the area. Today, visitors can explore the reserve via boardwalk trails, observe a variety of bird species, and learn about ongoing conservation initiatives aimed at preserving this unique ecosystem.