On Saturday May 16, our team organised a number of activities for children and adults in Kritou Terra and at the Cyprus Environmental Studies Centre, which is located in the village. The activities included:

• Bird ringing and bird release
• Interactive games
• Crafts
• Kremiotis waterfall hike
• Activities with invertebrates
• Workshop with local products and village tour
• Bird feathers’ workshop.

On Sunday, May 17, the celebration moved to the Smigies picnic site in Akamas. The day began with a bird-ringing demonstration and continued with an educational hike along the “Smigies” nature trail. During the hike, participants had the opportunity to learn about the importance of the flora and fauna of the area, which is part of the Natura 2000 network.

The activities were coordinated by Terra Cypria, and were executed with the support of representatives from the: Department of Environment, Department of Fisheries and Marine Research, Game and Fauna Service, Department of Forests, BirdLife Cyprus and Federation of Environmental Organisations of Cyprus.

What is Natura 2000?

The Natura 2000 European Ecological Network is a wide European network of protected natural areas for species of flora, fauna, birds and habitats. Apart from protecting nature and biodiversity, the Natura 2000 network offers us great benefits. For example, the network helps mitigate climate change, protects us from natural disasters, contributes to food security, offers us purified water, attracts visitors thus contributing to the support of regional economies, while at the same time supports full time jobs.

The Pandoteira project

The Pandoteira project deals with the management of the Natura 2000 network in Cyprus, with the purpose of making the network more effective and functional, as well as sustainable. The project is co-funded by the EU’s LIFE Programme, it is coordinated by the Department of Environment and has 13 other associated beneficiaries from Public Bodies, Universities, NGOs and private companies. Find out more about the project’s Partners here.

To learn more about the Pandoteira project follow this link. To view more photos from the celebration click here.

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As part of our project’s efforts to raise awareness and inform stakeholders connected to the Natura 2000 network, our participation in the Outdoor Adventure Show aimed to engage and inform people who maintain a close relationship with the natural environment. Individuals who love exercising and exploring in the outdoors and who are among the most direct allies in preserving our natural heritage.

At the Pandoteira project information booth, visitors had the opportunity to take part in an educational quiz and learn about the Mediterranean monk seal through one of our educational games. Our goal was to bridge the experience of recreation with the importance of nature conservation and the significance of the Natura 2000 network.

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The conference provided a collaborative platform for participants to explore environmental and sustainability initiatives, showcase innovative solutions, and share lessons learned from ongoing and completed projects.

The Open University of Cyprus (OUC) team had the opportunity to present both an overview of the Pandoteira project, as well as the structure, methodology, and progress of the work related to the Mapping of Ecosystem Services in Natura 2000 areas in Cyprus. The presentation highlighted the importance of ecosystem service assessment as a decision-support tool for sustainable environmental management and policy development. It also served as a valuable platform for constructive dialogue and knowledge exchange, allowing the team to benchmark its approach against other European initiatives and identify opportunities for methodological improvement.

During the meeting, the Pandoteira project representatives engaged in discussions with partners from other LIFE Integrated Projects, exploring common challenges, opportunities, and outcomes related to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, stakeholder participation, and the implementation of European environmental policies. Particular emphasis was placed on the practical application of ecosystem service mapping and valuation in protected areas, as well as on approaches for integrating scientific knowledge into policy and management frameworks.

A key benefit of participation was the direct feedback received from leading experts in ecosystem services and environmental assessment. The discussions proved especially valuable in refining the project’s methodological approach, particularly regarding the integration of monetary valuation into ecosystem service assessments. The insights and recommendations provided are expected to further strengthen the scientific robustness, policy relevance, and practical applicability of the ongoing work.

Another important outcome of participation in the conference was the opportunity to strengthen professional networks and foster potential future collaborations in the fields of habitat management, biodiversity monitoring, and wildlife conservation. Discussions with researchers and practitioners from different countries and disciplines opened new perspectives for joint research activities, exchange of expertise, and future participation in European funding and cooperation initiatives. The interaction among participants created a strong foundation for building long-term synergies around shared environmental objectives and innovative conservation practices.

Follow this link to find out more about the Pandoteira project.

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Within the framework of the Pandoteira project, a boat trip was organized on April 20, 2026, for the EU Nature Directors to the islet of Agios Georgios in Akamas. The aim of the trip was to highlight the ecological value of the area. The excursion started from the small harbour in Latsi and included a tour around the islet of Agios Georgios, as human presence on the islet is not permitted.

During the journey, an officer of the Game and Fauna Service informed the visitors about the ornithological importance of Agios Georgios, as the islet is nesting ground for the Shag subspecies Gulosus aristotelis desmarestii – a subspecies found only in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. It is an impressive seabird that depends on rocky islets and steep rocky coasts for nesting, as well as on the sea for feeding. The specific subspecies is protected and is listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive.

Visitors were also informed about the threats Shags are facing in Cyprus, such as risks from rodents that prey on their eggs and chicks, disturbance from boats approaching too close to the rocks, as well as incidental capture in fishing gear (bycatch). Additionally, as Shags hunt fish by diving tens of meters underwater, they are also at risk of becoming entangled in fishing nets or abandoned fishing nets (ghost nets), which can lead to drowning.

Using binoculars, the visitors had the opportunity to observe Shags, as well as Yellow-legged Gulls (Larus michahellis), which also nest on the islet. The boat trip concluded with a short visit to the Blue Lagoon, where participants admired the crystal-clear blue waters.

This activity, combined with the other actions carried out during the Nature Directors meeting, contributed significantly to understanding the importance of protecting the Akamas Peninsula.

The short boat trip was organised by the Department of Environment and Terra Cypria, within the framework of the Pandoteira project.

Click here to find out more about our team’s efforts to protect Shags.

Photos: Anastasia Aristou (Terra Cypria)

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During the hike, members of the Pandoteira project team, from Terra Cypria, Frederick University and BirdLife Cyprus, took on the educational part of the hike. More specifically, they informed participants about the protected areas of Cyprus, the flora, fauna and avifauna that can be found in the specific protected area, as well as its unique geology.

The route offered stunning views of Akrotiri and the Limassol salt marsh, as well as Pentadaktylos, Kyrenia and Morphou Bay. We walked among junipers and endemic golden oaks, while observing the wildflowers of the season, such as orchids. We also learnt about the different bird species of the area, even though the heavy wind did not allow us to observe them. Lastly, a few short stops gave us the opportunity to observe points of natural and geological interest.

The protected areas “SAC Madari – Papoutsa” and “SPA Vounokorfes Madaris – Papoutsas”, within which the trail is located, are home to 40 of the 131 endemic plant species of Cyprus. In addition, the areas are also home to many migratory and other important bird species that nest there.

The entire route around “Teisia tis Madaris” trail presents igneous rocks and is one of the most impressive appearances of this type of rock. The rock formations, which are almost vertical, emerge like walls on the mountain peaks.

Apart from raising awareness about the flora and fauna of the area, the aim of the hike was also to promote good practices among organized and independent hikers.

Click here to find out more about the Pandoteira project.

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The OUC team had the opportunity to present both the methodological framework and the current progress of its work on mapping ecosystem services in Natura 2000 areas in Cyprus. This presentation served as a platform for constructive dialogue and knowledge exchange, allowing the team to benchmark its approach against other European initiatives.

A key benefit of participation was the direct feedback received from leading experts in ecosystem services. The discussion was particularly valuable in refining the methodological approach, especially regarding the integration of monetary valuation of ecosystem services. The insights and recommendations provided are expected to enhance the robustness, policy relevance, and scientific credibility of the ongoing work.

Overall, participation in the meeting strengthened collaboration opportunities, improved methodological approaches through expert input, and increased the visibility of OUC’s work within the COST SMILES network. It also reinforced the strategic importance of aligning local research efforts with broader European frameworks on ecosystem services assessment and natural capital accounting.

An additional important outcome of participation in this meeting was the opportunity to strengthen networking and foster potential future collaborations in the field of island ecosystem services. The interaction with experts from different countries and disciplines created a solid foundation for building synergies around shared research interests, particularly in the context of small- and medium-sized island ecosystems, which face common environmental and socio-economic challenges.

Find out more about the Pandoteira project here.

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Monthly waterbird counts, conducted systematically for more than two decades by the Game and Fauna Service and BirdLife Cyprus, show a decline in the species’ population in Cyprus. Specifically, from 2013 to the present, a decrease of around 14–31% has been observed. A summary of the species’ status in Cyprus was recently presented at the 4th International Flamingo Symposium, which took place in Italy from 10–15 November 2025.

Possible factors behind the significant decline of the species on our island include frequent droughts, inflows of poor-quality water leading to reduced food availability, pressures from development, and incompatible activities around the wetlands.

As part of the Pandoteira Project, a ten-year project co-funded by the EU’s LIFE Programme, gaps in knowledge are being addressed regarding the specific dietary, breeding, and resting requirements of certain species, as well as the quantification of the threats they face. One of the species studied by the project is the Greater flamingo.

Filling these knowledge gaps will enable the adoption of targeted conservation actions to improve the status of the species in specific Special Protection Areas, Natura 2000 sites designated for wild birds. As a result, conservation objectives can be achieved both for the species and for the Natura 2000 Network sites in which they occur.

To find out more about the Pandoteira project, click here.

Cover photo: Marios Andreou (Frederick University)

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Starting from the Kionia picnic area, we visited three stations.

• First, we learned how to identify the reptiles of Cyprus, by observing preserved specimens in alcohol of the different species that live on our island. We also discussed basic differences that allow us to identify them easily.
• Then we learned how to safely and respectfully locate reptiles in nature. How experts catch and handle them, either for research purposes or for removing from residential areas, and how they are released safely back into their natural environment. We learned and tried to apply the “rock flipping” method, where one can carefully find reptiles under rocks, as they often use them as shelter. We also saw how experts “fish” reptiles without harming them, by tying a loop of dental floss onto a long rod. Although we tried to catch lizards using this method … it’s harder than it sounds.
• At the third station, we learned how to deal with emergencies and injuries in nature. It’s crucial to know how to protect both ourselves and the environment and be well prepared for future outdoor activities.

Afterwards, we walked a part of the Kionia – Prophet Elias trail, where we enjoyed the spectacular view and were informed about the biodiversity of the area. For those who did not want to join the hike, our team had prepared reptile-themed crafts. Children and adults made magnets, figures, and collages in the shape of lizards, snakes, and chameleons.

The Pandoteira project deals with the management of the Natura 2000 network in Cyprus, with the purpose of making the network more effective and functional, as well as sustainable. The project is co-funded by the EU’s LIFE Programme, it is coordinated by the Department of Environment and has 13 other associated beneficiaries from Public Bodies, Universities, NGOs and private companies. Find out more about the project’s Partners here.

To learn more about the Pandoteira project follow this link.

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European Landscape Ecology Congress

Members of our team from the Open University of Cyprus participated in the European Landscape Ecology Congress, which took place in Bratislava (Slovakia), between on September 2 – 5, 2025. The cοngress brought together dozens of academics and researchers from across Europe, providing an important platform for the exchange of knowledge and experiences.

During the congress we had the opportunity to present the relevant results of the Pandoteira project. The presentation, titled “Unlocking Nature’s Value in Cyprus: The Contribution of Protected Areas to Ecosystem Services”, focused on outlining the methodological approach and sharing the first qualitative insights from the Ecosystem Services assessment of Natura 2000 areas in Cyprus.

In addition, the results of our project concerning the mapping of ecosystem services in selected areas of the Natura 2000 network were presented.

MPA4CHANGE Training

A member of our team from the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research participated in the MPA4CHANGE Training on Vulnerability Assessment (VA), which was held between September 22 and 26, 2025, in Croatia. The aim of the training was to share tools and ideas to help Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas (MPA) adapt to a changing climate.

Over three days, 11 managers of Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas—coming from Tunisia, Slovenia, Turkey, Croatia, and Cyprus—immersed themselves in the tools developed by MPA4Change. They learned how to:

• Apply the climate vulnerability assessment tool to evaluate exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity in their MPAs.
• Design participatory processes that include all relevant stakeholders.
• Transform these analyses into adaptation and mitigation plans that strengthen marine management from both ecological and social perspectives.

It is expected that future collaborative initiatives and participation in joint research efforts will emerge through the implementation of the MPA Vulnerability Assessment Tool and the integration of its results into the management plans being developed under the Pandoteira project.

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On May 24th we organised an educational hike at Cape Greco. Participants had the opportunity to observe and learn about the area’s unique geomorphology, as well as its flora and fauna, which are protected under the Natura 2000 network. Additionally, the public had the chance to enjoy the unique sunset accompanied by the sounds of live unplugged traditional music.

On Sunday May 25th 2025, our team organised a number of activities for children and adults at Thalassa Museum, in Ayia Napa. The activities included:

• Bird ringing and bird release
• Interactive educational games related to sea life
• Treasure hunt
• Theatre workshop
• Thalassa Museum guided tour
• Traditional carrot spoon sweet making
• Documentary screening dedicated to the sea and the Natura 2000 areas.

The activities were coordinated by Terra Cypria, and were executed with the support of representatives from the: Department of Forests, Department of Fisheries and Marine Research, Game and Fauna Service, BirdLife Cyprus, Open University of Cyprus and Federation of Environmental Organisations of Cyprus.

What is Natura 2000?

The Natura 2000 European Ecological Network is a wide European network of protected natural areas for species of flora, fauna, birds and habitats. Apart from protecting nature and biodiversity, the Natura 2000 network offers us great benefits. For example, the network helps mitigate climate change, protects us from natural disasters, contributes to food security, offers us purified water, attracts visitors thus contributing to the support of regional economies, while at the same time supports full time jobs.

The Pandoteira project

The Pandoteira project deals with the management of the Natura 2000 network in Cyprus, with the purpose of making the network more effective and functional, as well as sustainable. The project is co-funded by the EU’s LIFE Programme, it is coordinated by the Department of Environment and has 13 other associated beneficiaries from Public Bodies, Universities, NGOs and private companies. Find out more about the project’s Partners here.

To learn more about the Pandoteira project follow this link.

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