• Mon. Dec 23rd, 2024

CYPRUS TRAVELLER GUIDE

Updated daily for people visiting & living in Cyprus

Bird Watching In Cyprus


A WONDERFUL WAY TO EXPLORE
THE ISLAND'S COUNTRYSODE

A VARIETY OF BIRD SPECIES

Cyprus is home to a wide variety of bird species. With its diverse landscape of forests, wetlands, and coastline, it provides the perfect habitat for both resident and migratory birds. Bird watching in Cyprus is a popular activity among locals and tourists alike, offering the opportunity to observe a wide range of species in their natural environment. People that partake in this pastime often travel around the island following trails, documenting and taking photos of the birds that they spot.

SEASONAL MIGRATIONS

One of the best times to go bird watching in Cyprus is during the spring and autumn migration seasons. During these times, thousands of birds pass through the island on their way to and from their breeding grounds, making it a prime location for bird watching. The spring migration, in particular, is favourable, as several species of birds make their to the island on their way back to Europe from their wintering grounds in Africa. The weather at this time of year is also very comfortable and it is an ideal time to take in the island’s countryside.


THE AKROTIRI SALT LAKE 

One of the most famous bird watching spots in Cyprus is the Akrotiri Salt Lake. This large salt lake is a haven for water birds, attracting species such as flamingos, herons, and waders. The surrounding wetlands and reed beds provide the perfect habitat for these birds, making it an ideal location for bird watching. During the migration seasons, the lake is bustling with activity as flocks of birds stop to rest and feed before continuing their journey.

 

A Black-Headed Wagtails In Cyprus
A BLACK-HEADED WAGTAIL
Bonelli's Eagle In Cyprus
BONELLI'S EAGLE
The Griffon Vulture
THE GRIFFON VULTURE
THE TROODOS MOUNTAINS 

In addition to the salt lake, the Troodos Mountains offer another excellent bird-watching location. The mountainous terrain is home to a variety of bird species, including raptors such as Bonelli’s eagle and the Griffon Vulture. The dense forests and rocky cliffs provide the perfect nesting and foraging grounds for these birds, providing bird watchers with the chance to observe them in their natural habitat.

Long Legged Buzzard In Cyprus
LONG LEGGED BUZZARD
BIRD WATCHING IN THE SUMMER

As the seasons change, so do the bird species that can be observed in Cyprus. In the summer, the island is home to several resident bird species that can be seen nesting and breeding in the countryside. The squacco heron, common kingfisher, and European bee-eater are just a few of the species that can be observed during the summer months. The warm weather and long daylight hours provide the perfect conditions for these birds to thrive, making it an ideal time for bird watching.

Bird Watching In Cyprus
SQUACCO HERON
BIRD WATCHING IN THE WINTER

The winter months also offer opportunities for bird watching in Cyprus, as the island becomes a temporary home to many migratory species escaping the harsh weather in northern Europe. The salt lakes and wetlands once again become important resting spots for these birds, offering bird watchers the chance to observe species such as the greater spotted eagle and black-tailed godwit. The diverse landscape of Cyprus provides plenty of opportunities for bird watching year-round, ensuring that there is always something new to see no matter the season.

A STUNNING NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

Cyprus with its stunning natural beauty offers the chance for all to observe diverse bird life in a stunning natural environment. Those with an interest in bird watching, whether seasoned bird watchers or beginners, are sure to be rewarded with some memorable and enriching experiences and Cyprus has become a popular destination for bird watchers from around the world. Whether it is the spring migration, the summer breeding season, or the winter influx of migratory birds, there is always something to see on the island. Cyprus, with its diverse habitats and abundance of bird species offers a unique and rewarding experience for both bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. 

 

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