Cyprus Special Protection Areas (SPA's)

Troodos Forest

As of the 22nd November 2005 this site was designated an SPA

Troodos Forest is located at the centre of Troodos massif that ranges from the northwest to the southeast part of Cyprus . The lowest part of the site, with an altitude of 700m, is close to its southeast end (Saitas area) and the highest point is Chionistra peak at 1952m, which is the highest point of Cyprus. The site is one of the best areas in Cyprus for six Birds Directive Annex 1 species. It supports very good populations of the endemics Cyprus wheatear, Coal tit, Short-toed treecreeper and Cyprus warbler. It also supports the entire population of Common crossbill in Cyprus . It is the area hosting the largest populations of Ring Ouzel wintering in Cyprus and the most important breeding area for Blue rock thrush. It is also one of two breeding areas for Blackbird in Cyprus . The site is also one of the two areas in Cyprus used by Griffon vulture for drinking water.

Problems

The site has suffered great degradation through the operation of an asbestos mine between 1904 and 1988. Large parts of the mine area are still in an unstable state and this causes various environmental and health problems. Military activities negatively influence the site in many ways. Such activities include the creation of military establishments and the occupation and destruction of highly important areas. 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. 

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