Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Island Animals
WHERE TO WATCH
Birds travelling between Africa and Europe use Cyprus as a stepping stone on their migratory path. Birdwatchers
have an excellent window into both more exotic migratory species and local birds. Here are some of the best bird-
watching locations on the island:
Larnaka Salt Lake An important migratory habitat that fills with flamingos and water fowl from February to
May. There are lookout posts (with seats) at various intervals along the airport road to Larnaka. You can also walk
the nature trails around the lakes past the Hala Sultan Tekke.
Troödos Mountains The ranges offer excellent vantage points along the many nature trails in the region. Take
binoculars to catch the likes of griffon vultures, falcons and kestrels. One of the best birdwatching spots is the
Kaledonia Trail, which showcases large amounts of Cyprus and Sardinian warblers and nightingales.
Cape Greco Peninsula In addition to being the home of wonderful sea caves, the cape, with its scrubland and
rocky outcrops, is one of the prime migration zones for birds from across the seas. Expect to see a range of birds,
from chukars and spectacled warblers to pallid harriers and red-rumped swallows.
Kyrenia Mountains Bonelli's Eagles nest amid the rugged rock faces and Cyprus warblers and wheatears are
easy to spot. Sightings of black-headed bunting, spectacled warblers, and blue rock thrush are common.
Famagusta Wetlands Like Larnaka salt lake in the South, the Famagusta wetlands in the North are home to a
host of migratory birds. Likely sightings include pelicans, flamingos, Demoiselle cranes and spoonbills.
