Bale Mountains National Park - Zoologische Gesellschaft Frankfurt

Migratory and endemic birds
Over 170 species have been recorded in BMNP to date, some 20% of the species recorded for
Ethiopia. 57% of Ethiopia’s endemic birds are found in the Bale Mountains, such as Rouget’s rail,
spot-breasted plover, blue-winged goose, the black headed siskin and white-backed black tit. The
area, with it abundant rodent community, is also very important for many internationally rare large
eagles, vultures and other raptors. Bale is also the only know breeding site for a number of
Eurasian species, such as the golden eagle, the ruddy shellduck and choughs. The park also has
breeding populations of another species, the wattled crane, the only known site out with southern
Africa. In addition, it is an important over-wintering ground or passage station for migrants from
Eurasia, particularly passerines and waterfowl.
Gaysay grasslands and antelopes
This small but important zone at the north of the park comprises almost flat land, with swampy
areas. The area is particularly important for mountain nyala, although good populations of other
antelope such as Menelik’s bushbuck, reedbuck, and grey duiker are found in large numbers on
these grasslands, particularly in areas where human disturbance is slight, or at night. Grazing
pressure is high in this area, and invasive unpalatable plant species are a potential increasing
problem.
Genetic stocks of wild plants
The forests and grasslands of the Bale Mountains have important stocks of valuable wild genetic
material, including wild coffee (Coffea arabica) and medicinal plants. The area is regarded as the
most important for genetic stocks of wild coffee and medicinal plants in Ethiopia. Three medicinal
plant hotspots have been identified: two in the Gaysay area and one in the Angesu area, spanning
the park boundary.
Scenic Values
Mountain peaks, plateau and lava flows
From the Sanetti plateau rise the highest peaks of the mountains, Tullu Dimtuu, along with Batu,
Worgona, Wasema, Archaah and Adola, which together make up the Central Peaks area. Although
not as high, the peaks in the western park of the park, such as Garamba Deema offer a
spectacular site on the approach by road.
The Sanetti Plateau, over 4,000 m asl shows evidence of glaciation, as recently as 2000 years
ago. Generally, the Afroalpine area offers spectacular vistas in a somewhat hostile climate and is a
key attraction for visitors. West of the Sanetti plateau lies the lava flows area, a broken, rocky area
of relatively recent lava outpourings originating from a peak or peaks on the Sanetti Plateau. The
lava flows are clearly visible from satellite photos and on the ground stunning rock formations are
visible, for example in the Rafu area.
Alpine lakes and mountain streams
The alpine lakes and mountain streams are a key feature of BMNP and, as well as providing vital
habitat and ecosystem services, are an attractive scenic feature in their own right. Access is good
to small lakes on the Sanetti Plateau and these draw birdwatchers and other tourists. In the
Harenna Forest and Gaysay area, walkers along river banks can be rewarded with stunning
waterfalls and attractive water flows and scenery.
Harenna escarpment
The Harenna escarpment falls away rapidly from the southern edge of the mountains and Sanetti
plateau, from 3,500 m eventually to 2,000 m asl, over a distance of just 8km. When not cloaked in
mist or cloud, the cliffs of the escarpment offer impressive views to the south.
Section B – Park Purpose, Significance and Values 21