Flora & Fauna of Cyprus

Cyprus has a unique natural environment thanks to its isolation as an island.

🐐 Fauna (Animal World)

1. Cyprus Mouflon (Agrinó / Αγρινό)

The national animal of Cyprus.

This is a wild mountain sheep that lives only in the forests of Paphos (endemic).
Very shy; it is difficult to see in the wild.
Depicted on coins (1, 2, 5 cents).

2. Turtles (Caretta Caretta and Green Turtles)

Cyprus is one of the few places in the Mediterranean where sea turtles lay their eggs.

Where: Lara Beach (Akamas).
Season: Summer (June–August). The nests are protected by the state.

3. Cyprus Donkeys

In the past, they were the main means of transport. Now they live in shelters (for example, in the village of Vavuchina or Arahna) and are a symbol of rural Cyprus.

4. Snakes

Several species of snakes live in Cyprus, but only one is dangerous:

Gyurza (Vipera lebetina) — in Cypriot "Fina". Venomous and dangerous.
The other snakes (black snake, Cyprus grass snake) are useful and not dangerous.

🌺 Flora (Plant World)

1. Cyprus Cyclamen (Cyclamen cyprium)

The national flower of Cyprus.

Grows in shady places, blooms in autumn.
Endemic (grows only here).

2. Golden Oak (LadzYá / Λατζιά)

The national tree. An evergreen oak that grows in Troodos. Its acorns are large, and the leaves are golden on the underside.

3. Migratory Birds: Flamingos

In winter (from November to March) thousands of pink flamingos arrive at the Salt Lakes of Larnaka and Limassol.

📍 In the exam: What is the national animal of Cyprus?
Answer: Mouflon (Agrino).

📍 In the exam: Where do turtles lay their eggs?
Answer: On Lara Beach (Akamas Peninsula).

Flora & Fauna