Birding sites · migration · endemic species
Birdwatching in Cyprus means salt lakes with flamingos, coastal cliffs with Eleonora’s Falcons, Mediterranean scrub with endemic songbirds and mountain forests filled with distinctive subspecies. Discover where to go birding, which nature areas are easy to reach and which birds you can expect each month and season.
Why go birdwatching in Cyprus?
Cyprus lies at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa. On one island, you can visit winter salt lakes, dry coastal scrub, rocky cliffs, farmland and cool mountain forests. The birdlife changes quickly during spring and autumn migration, and rare species may remain on the island for only a few hours or days.
For many birders, a trip starts at Larnaca Salt Lake or Akrotiri, where flamingos, waders, herons and ducks winter close to the coast. In spring, wheatears, warblers, bee-eaters, rollers and birds of prey move across the island. Further afield, Akamas and Cape Greco offer Mediterranean maquis with Cyprus Warblers and Cyprus Wheatears. Troodos and Paphos Forest are home to mountain woodland species such as Cyprus Scops Owls, as well as endemic subspecies of the jay, coal tit and treecreeper.
Cyprus is compact, but the best birding sites are not all close together. A good route combines an accessible wetland near Larnaca with a coastal area and at least one morning in the mountains. FaunaMap helps you plan ahead with recent sightings, birding viewpoints, hotspots and expected species by location based on historical data.
Landscapes and biodiversity
The best birding sites in Cyprus are closely linked to landscape and water. Salt lakes attract large numbers of waterbirds in winter, while maquis, coastal cliffs and mountain forests are especially valuable for breeding birds and migrants. Together, these six habitats provide a practical foundation for a birding trip around Cyprus.
Larnaca Salt Lake and Akrotiri Salt Lake are Cyprus’s best-known wetlands. In winter, the basins fill with water and flamingos, ducks and waders feed in the shallows. Along the lake edges, salt pans and temporary pools, you may also find breeding Black-winged Stilts, Spur-winged Lapwings and Kentish Plovers.
Typical species
In reedbeds such as Akrotiri Marsh, Zakaki Marsh and Oroklini Lake, birding is about slowing down and listening. Water levels change greatly between winter and summer, so the species list can vary from one visit to the next. Reed edges provide cover for bitterns, small marsh birds, Bluethroats and migrating songbirds.
Typical species
Dry scrub, juniper, low oaks and open ground create the typical birding landscape of Akamas and parts of Cape Greco. The vegetation may seem quiet in summer, but in spring it is filled with the songs of endemic warblers and wheatears. Search high shrub branches and paths bordered by bare ground.
Typical species
Around Cape Greco, Akrotiri and the cliffs near Episkopi, sea, rock and open coastal scrub come together. High viewpoints are good for raptors and migrants, while cracks and ledges provide nesting sites for falcons and cliff birds. Always use official paths and keep away from nesting cliffs.
Typical species
Higher in the mountains, the Mediterranean landscape changes into pine forest, cedar woodland and cool valleys. Mornings are often more productive than hot afternoons. Listen for woodland songbirds, woodpeckers and the call of the Cyprus Scops Owl, while scanning open slopes for birds of prey.
Typical species
Reservoirs such as Kouris, Evretou and Asprokremmos bring together open water, muddy shores, valleys and farmland. During wet periods, herons, kingfishers and ducks may use the water. The surrounding hills are especially good for wheatears, rollers and hunting raptors.
Typical species
Birdwatching throughout the year
Cyprus offers interesting birds in every season. The greatest variety usually appears during migration, while winter is best for flamingos and waterbirds and summer is ideal for mountain forests, coastal cliffs and endemic species.
January
WinterThe salt lakes near Larnaca and Akrotiri are at their best now. Greater Flamingos feed in the shallows alongside ducks, waders, herons and gulls. At Oroklini Lake, reed edges and open mudflats may produce additional species.
Recommended sitesLarnaca Salt Lake, Akrotiri Salt Lake, Oroklini Lake and the wetlands around Limassol.
February
WinterThe first swallows and wheatears appear from February. Winter birds are still present, but activity increases in open country and along the coast. By the end of the month, the first cuckoos and early raptors may also be seen.
Recommended sitesCoastal scrub at Cape Greco, Akamas, farmland around Larnaca and the salt lakes.
March
SpringSpring migration gathers pace with larks, pipits, wagtails, wheatears and warblers. Cyprus Warblers and Cyprus Wheatears sing from the scrub. Mountain woodland edges and open slopes become increasingly interesting.
Recommended sitesAkamas, Cape Greco, Akrotiri Peninsula, Evretou Reservoir and the lower Troodos slopes.
April
SpringApril is one of the best months for birdwatching in Cyprus. Herons, waders, bee-eaters, rollers, warblers, shrikes and raptors use the island as a stopover. A morning on the coast can feel completely different from an afternoon in the mountains.
Recommended sitesAkrotiri, Larnaca, Cape Greco, Akamas and open farmland with scrub edges.
May
SpringMany summer visitors have returned and endemic species are active on their territories. Look for Cyprus Wheatears on song perches, Cyprus Warblers in dense scrub and raptors above valleys. Late waders and herons may still be moving through wetlands.
Recommended sitesPaphos Forest, Akamas, Akrotiri Marsh, Troodos and the valleys around Paphos.
June
SummerThe heat makes an early start essential. In Troodos and Paphos Forest, pine woodland and cool mountain slopes are attractive for Cyprus Jays, Cyprus Coal Tits and Short-toed Treecreepers. In the evening, listen for Cyprus Scops Owls at suitable sites.
Recommended sitesPaphos Forest, Troodos National Forest Park, Mahairas and woodland edges near mountain villages.
July
SummerIn July, the coastal cliffs are a good place to look for Eleonora’s Falcons. The species breeds late, allowing its young to benefit from passing birds and large insects. Avoid the hottest part of the day and watch from spacious official viewpoints.
Recommended sitesEpiskopi Cliffs, Akrotiri, Avdimou Bay, Cape Aspro and Cape Greco.
August
SummerThe first shrikes and other autumn migrants arrive from August. Wheatears and warblers return along the coast, while raptors can be seen over open ground. Water sources and shaded woodland edges are valuable on hot days.
Recommended sitesAkrotiri Gravel Pits, Cape Greco, Akamas, Paphos Headland and mountain passes.
September
AutumnAutumn migration brings raptors, swallows, waders and other passage birds to Cyprus. Around late August and early September, Demoiselle Cranes may be seen near Akrotiri Salt Lake. Wind direction and visibility strongly affect how easy migration is to follow.
Recommended sitesAkrotiri, Larnaca, Cape Greco, open farmland and high coastal viewpoints.
October
AutumnOctober combines large numbers of autumn migrants with the first winter visitors. Look for raptors, storks, shrikes, pipits and warblers in coastal areas and open country. Ducks and waders gradually increase in wetlands.
Recommended sitesAkrotiri Peninsula, Cape Greco, Oroklini Lake, Larnaca and Evretou Reservoir.
November
AutumnFrom November, the salt lakes fill with more water and increasing numbers of flamingos, ducks and other winter visitors arrive. Marshes can also be surprisingly rich in Bluethroats, reed birds and migrating waders.
Recommended sitesLarnaca Salt Lake, Akrotiri Salt Lake, Oroklini Lake and Akrotiri Marsh.
December
WinterDecember is a good month for relaxed observation of winter birds. Flamingos often stand in the shallows for long periods, while ducks, herons and waders feed along the shores. Winter thrushes and Stonechats can be found in the hills.
Recommended sitesLarnaca Salt Lake, Akrotiri, Oroklini, Evretou and farmland around Paphos.
Seasonal information: BirdLife Cyprus and Visit Cyprus. The exact variety of species changes with rain, wind, water levels and the route of migration.
Birding sites in Cyprus
From flamingos at Larnaca to mountain forests in Paphos Forest and coastal cliffs at Cape Greco, Cyprus offers impressive bird diversity on a relatively small island. Below are popular and reasonably accessible areas representing wetlands, coast, maquis, valleys and high-elevation woodland.
Alyki, Orphani, Soros and Airport Lake
Larnaca Salt Lake is one of the easiest starting points for birdwatching in Cyprus. The complex includes several salt lakes and has a nature trail along the shores. From November to March, flamingos, ducks, waders and other winter visitors are the main attractions. Visit different sides of the lake, as light and water levels determine where the birds gather.
Akrotiri Salt Lake, Phasouri Marsh, Zakaki and Lady’s Mile
Akrotiri is probably the most varied birding area in Cyprus. Within a short distance are salt lake, reed marsh, coastal pools, dunes, farmland, maquis and cliffs. This makes the area especially interesting in spring and autumn. With a car, you can combine several sites in one day, while Zakaki Marsh and the eastern side of Lady’s Mile are also relatively easy to visit.
Small wetland with notable breeding birds
Oroklini Lake is small, but highly valuable for birds. The Natura 2000 site is best known for breeding Spur-winged Lapwings and Black-winged Stilts. In winter, ducks, snipes, gulls and sometimes flamingos join them. It is ideal for a short morning walk, looking from the edges towards the open water and reedbeds.
Aphrodite Trail, Adonis Trail and Smigies
Akamas combines rocky coast, dry scrubland, open woodland and quiet valleys. The trails near the Baths of Aphrodite and Smigies offer good opportunities to walk independently while looking for endemic species. In spring, the vegetation is lively and Cyprus Warblers and Cyprus Wheatears sing from the scrub. Allow plenty of time, as distances and elevation changes quickly add up.
Stavros tis Psokas, Tripylos and the forests around Kykkos
Paphos Forest is one of the best areas for mountain birds and endemic subspecies. Higher parts of the forest contain cedar and black pine, while clearings and woodland edges attract raptors. The roads are winding and distances are long, but that also creates a quieter birding experience than the coast.
Konnos, Cape Greco trails and the coastal plateau
Cape Greco is popular because it combines nature trails, viewpoints and coastal scenery with easy access from Ayia Napa and Protaras. For birders, the area is interesting as a coastal bottleneck during migration. Check low scrub, open rock and the sky above the cliffs, but start early because of heat and visitor pressure.
Water, cliffs and rural birding country
Evretou Reservoir is a good addition to Akamas and Paphos Forest. The reservoir lies in a landscape of valleys, scrub and farmland. At lower water levels, muddy edges may attract waders, while the slopes and air above the lake are suitable for raptors and wheatears.
An accessible birding spot for a short walk
Athalassa is a convenient choice if you are staying in Nicosia, have limited travel time or want a productive birding stop between longer excursions. The park combines water, reeds, trees and open grassland. Especially in the morning, you can find waterbirds, small herons, kingfishers, songbirds and migrants.
Helpful tips and information
A birding trip to Cyprus calls for a smart combination of season, habitat and accessibility. Below are answers to questions many beginner and experienced birders have before visiting the salt lakes, coastal areas and mountain forests.
Spring and autumn are the best periods for the greatest variety of bird species. Spring migration begins as early as February and is usually particularly interesting in March and April, when warblers, wheatears, raptors, bee-eaters, rollers and waders move across the island. Autumn migration begins from August and continues through September and October.
Winter is the best choice for flamingos and many waterbirds at Larnaca Salt Lake, Akrotiri Salt Lake and Oroklini Lake. June and July are hot on the coast, but the mountain forests and coastal cliffs are suitable for endemic species, Eleonora’s Falcon and Bonelli’s Eagle. Before leaving, also check the seasonal information from BirdLife Cyprus.
The best-known sites are Larnaca Salt Lake and Akrotiri Salt Lake. In winter, usually between November and March, large groups of flamingos may be present. Oroklini Lake and several smaller pools around Larnaca can also attract flamingos when water levels are suitable.
Use the marked paths and viewpoints and do not walk towards the birds. Numbers can vary greatly from day to day because flamingos respond to water levels, food availability and disturbance. Official information about Larnaca Salt Lake is available from Visit Cyprus.
The three endemic breeding birds are the Cyprus Warbler, Cyprus Wheatear and Cyprus Scops Owl. The Cyprus Wheatear occurs across much of the island from March through October, especially in open woodland, maquis, farmland and along the coast. The Cyprus Warbler prefers dense scrub, maquis and woodland edges. The Cyprus Scops Owl is more often heard than seen in forests, olive groves, villages and parks.
Good combinations for a birding trip include Akamas and Paphos Forest in the west, Cape Greco in the east and Troodos or Mahairas for mountain birds. For the owl, a quiet evening with local knowledge is usually more productive than walking around during the day. BirdLife Cyprus describes the endemic species and their habitats.
Yes, Akrotiri is one of the best areas for independent birdwatching, but the peninsula consists of several separate sites. Roads and hides are available at Akrotiri Marsh and Zakaki Marsh. The Lady’s Mile pools and parts of the gravel pits can be reached from the road. A car is useful for the full area because the distances between salt lake, marsh, coast and farmland are considerable.
Be aware of military areas and follow all signs and local instructions. The southern cliffs and certain parts of the Western Sovereign Base Area are not accessible. Do not use cameras or telescopes near restricted zones. Check current information at Visit Akrotiri.
Yes, especially if you stay in Larnaca or Nicosia. Larnaca Salt Lake is close to the city and has a nature trail. Oroklini Lake works well for a short trip from Larnaca, while Athalassa National Forest Park is near Nicosia. Part of Akrotiri can also be reached by public transport to the Zakaki and Lady’s Mile area, although visiting several sites requires more planning.
A rental car is much more practical for Akamas, Paphos Forest, Troodos and remote reservoirs. Mountain roads are winding and public transport usually does not reach the best trailheads. If you prefer not to drive, consider a local nature excursion or bird guide. Before leaving, check current route information from Visit Cyprus and the Cyprus Forestry Department.
The best choices are Paphos Forest, Tripylos, Troodos National Forest Park and Mahairas Forest. These areas contain pine, cedar, golden oak, open mountain slopes and woodland edges. They are good for Cyprus Jays, Cyprus Coal Tits, Short-toed Treecreepers, Cyprus Scops Owls, Cyprus Wheatears and Bonelli’s Eagles.
Start early, especially during the warmer months. Listen near car parks, picnic areas and woodland edges before traffic and wind increase. Bring plenty of water and check the condition of forest roads and trails. The visitor centres of the Cyprus Forestry Department provide information about Troodos, Athalassa and Kavo Greco.
Coastal cliffs are the best choice for Eleonora’s Falcons. The species is recorded at Akrotiri, Episkopi Cliffs, Paramali, Avdimou Bay and Cape Aspro. Cape Greco can also be interesting during migration. Look for birds hunting above the sea or along the cliffs and choose a viewpoint with a wide field of view.
Bonelli’s Eagle is possible all year in mountainous and open country. Look especially above Paphos Forest, Akamas, the Diarizos Valley and other valleys with rocky slopes. Mornings are often good for circling raptors. Read the species information about Eleonora’s Falcon and Bonelli’s Eagle from BirdLife Cyprus.
In FaunaMap, you can find recent bird sightings in Cyprus on an interactive map. Before you leave, see which birding viewpoints and hotspots are worth visiting, which species are expected at a location and where recent sightings have been reported. This is especially useful in Cyprus, where water levels, wind and migration can quickly determine which site is most productive.
Use FaunaMap to plan your route, record your own sightings and keep your species list up to date during your birding trip.
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