Cyprus Important Bird Areas (IBA's)

Akamas Peninsula

The Akamas Peninsula is located at the westernmost end of the island. 39.8% of the site is main state forest. The topography ranges from a maximum altitude of 669m in the hills, near Inia village, to the coastline and includes a mountain plateau, small plains, small streams, deep narrow valleys, caves, gorges, sandy beaches, rocky shores and small islets. A total number of 77 Birds Directive Annex 1 species have been recorded in the site. The site is a breeding area for the raptors Bonelli's Eagle and Peregrine. It is also one of the best sites in Cyprus for breeding populations of Roller and Cyprus Warbler. The site is one of the most important areas in Cyprus for migratory birds. During migration, the shrublands of Akamas support a high number of songbirds while high numbers of waterbirds such as Egrets and Herons rest along the rocky coast. The site is also an important "Bottleneck site", during migration, thousands of raptors passing through the area.

Problems

Parts of the site are subject to intense pressure for tourist development. Hunting is permitted within the site, but this need not pose a threat provided enforcement of the relevant law is strict and hunting is exercised in a sustainable manner, taking into account the conservation needs of the species for which the site is designated. The population of Cyprus Warbler is large, but appears to be getting gradually displaced by invasive Sardinian Warblers.

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