Wildlife in Jordan has undergone a significant change over centuries and is continued to be threatened by a number of factors. A rapidly expanding population, industrial expansion, wildlife hunting, poaching and habitat loss due to development have overall taken a toll on the Wildlife in Jordan. Jordan's absorption of hundreds of people since the Arab Israeli War of 1948 has resulted in the over-exploitation of many of the natural resources and there is often a shortage of water ,which is detrimental for the Wildlife in Jordan. Due to over exploitation in water and drainage of water resources the country faces a severe shortage of water and most aquifers are dry and there is irreparable damage done to the Azraq Oasis.
In recent months and years, Jordan has addressed issues of wildlife and threats to the environment more seriously. Jordan has started to assert itself and begun the process of stopping environmental damage and reversing the decline in Wildlife in Jordan.
There has been the formation of a National Commission on National Strategy which addresses concerns on agriculture, air pollution, coastal and marine life, antiquities and cultural resources, mineral resources, wildlife and habitat preservation, population and settlement patterns, and water resources. Wildlife in Jordan, historically speaking consisted of ostrich, gazelle, Arabian oryx, Nubian ibex, Asiatic lion, Syrian bear and Fallow deer. It is also believed that crocodiles used to inhabit the Jordan River.
Throughout history, the land of Jordan has been renowned for its luxurious vegetation and wildlife. Ancient mosaics and stone engravings in Jawa and Wadi Qatif show pictures of oryx, Capra ibex and oxen. Known in the Bible as the "land of milk and honey," the area was described by more recent historians and travelers as green and rich in wildlife. During the 20th century, however, the health of Wildlife in Jordan has declined significantly. Problems such as desertification, drought and over hunting have damaged the natural landscape and will take many years to rectify.
Fortunately, Jordanians have taken great strides in recent years toward stopping and reversing the decline of their beautiful natural heritage. Even now, the Wildlife in Jordan is very diverse and remains a center of attraction between the Jordan Valley, the Mountain Heights Plateau and the Badia Desert region.
| 
