A DEEPLY RESPECTED ANIMAL
A SYMBOL OF HARD WORK
For centuries, the Cypriot donkey has been the most indispensable and respected domestic animal on the island. The Cypriot donkey was not only a symbol of hard work, but for a time, was the island’s only means of transport. It was also a status symbol, much like a car is today, and every village farmer had one.
A NEW ATTRACTION
The advancement of technology meant that the donkey’s role in Cypriot society would drastically diminish. New modern farming techniques, which included new mechanised systems, made the role of this domestic working animal redundant. Their transport role also became untenable after the arrival of MOTORISED VEHICLES.
A DROP IN NUMBERS
The advent of modern tourism meant that the Cypriot donkey soon became somewhat of an attraction as opposed to a working domestic animal. This meant that their numbers soon dropped sharply. In 2008, they were officially declared endangered. As a result, Cypriot donkeys today can only be found in dedicated donkey farms. These sanctuaries also form part of the island’s conservation program. Donkey rescue work in Cyprus is often carried out by small volunteer groups. Some of these groups operate under the umbrella of larger animal welfare charities as part of established donkey sanctuaries.
PAPHOS DISTRICT
Akamas Donkey Rescue: Focuses on rescue and community awareness near the Akamas Peninsula,
Donkey Rescue Cyprus: Aims to rescue and rehabilitate all Cyprus donkeys.
Paphos Donkey Sanctuary: Aims to re-home donkeys in the greater Paphos region.
LIMASSOL DISTRICT
Limassol Donkey Welfare & Rescue: Focuses on welfare, rescue missions, and re-homing in the greater Limassol region.
Troodos Mountain Donkey Sanctuary: Focuses on working with donkeys that were used for transport historically. This organisation focuses on welfare initiatives and adoption programs.
Cyprus Donkey Protection Society: Advocates rescue initiatives across Cyprus, coordinating with sanctuaries and volunteers.
NICOSIA DISTRICT
Karmi Donkey Farm: Maintains a small population of donkeys, offering educational tours and visits.
Larnaca Donkey Rescue Network: Based in the Larnaca district, this centre focuses on welfare and rescue in the greater Larnaca region.
NICOSIA DISTRICT
Larnaca Donkey Rescue Network: Focuses on welfare and rescue in the greater Larnaca region.
