General Facts
The River Jordan's depth ranges from 1 to 5 meters while the width averages at 30 meters. The air length of the river is 96 kilometers, however due to its twists and turns it's length is 251 kilometers. It runs through 3 countries: Palestinian territories, Jordan and Israel. It is the border between Israel and Jordan in some places. It's name in Hebrew is Yarden meaning Descender.
Course
The river starts on Mount Hermon at 2814 meters then it rapidly drops for 75 kilometers before entering the swampy Lake Hula, which is still slightly above sea level. When exiting the lake it still slightly drops in the course towards the Sea of Galilee 25 kilometers away from Lake Hula. The last section meanders down the last 151 kilometers into the Dead sea at 422 meters below sea level.
Wildlife
The mammals living near the River Jordan are: Arabian Leopard, Rock Hyrax, Common Otter, Red Cow, Ibexes, Wild Boar, Panthers, Jackals.
Species of fish living in the River Jordan are Capocta, Barbus Canis (Largescale Barbel), Cyprinodon, Silurus.
Birds living around the River Jordan are black and white storks, Brown Fish Owl, Heron, Dalmatian Pelicans, Kingfishers, Sandpipers, Shanks and Francolins.
There also live Vipers and fresh water Turtle.
Species of fish living in the River Jordan are Capocta, Barbus Canis (Largescale Barbel), Cyprinodon, Silurus.
Birds living around the River Jordan are black and white storks, Brown Fish Owl, Heron, Dalmatian Pelicans, Kingfishers, Sandpipers, Shanks and Francolins.
There also live Vipers and fresh water Turtle.
Tourism
The main tourist attraction in the River Jordan is Jesus's baptism site as well as other biblical sites, they are still arguing whether the place of Jesus's baptism in Jordan or Israel. You can also go rafting and kajacking in the River Jordan. You can also go bird watching at the River Jordan with it's variety of birds. In Jordan they are currently excavating the oldest church in the world, built by the River Jordan. The church is believed to be from 30 AD - 70 AD.
Agriculture
Since the Bronze age the River Jordan valley has been used for agriculture, because it is surrounded by 900 meter-high mountains, which create a sub-tropical climate and with low rainfall, high humidity and scorching temperatures. It is a perfect place to grow fruit and vegetables such as: cucumbers, tomatoes, bananas, melons and citrus fruits.