Bird Watching in North Cyprus

Why It's Exceptional

• North Cyprus lies on a major migratory flyway between Africa, Europe, and Asia, making it a hotspot for both spring (March–May) and autumn (August–October) migrations

• Roughly 347 species have been recorded in the region, with several Cyprus endemic species and subspecies, placing it among Europe’s richest birdwatching destinations

Notable Resident and Endemic Species

• Endemic species: Cyprus Warbler, Cyprus Wheatear, Cyprus Scops Owl; plus subspecies like Cyprus Coal Tit, Cyprus Jay, and Short-toed Treecreeper

• Other residents include Red-Rumped and Cliff Swallows, Golden Eagles, Griffon Vultures, Hoopoes, Blue Rock Thrush, Black Francolin, and Chukar

Spectacular Migrants

• Spring migrants: Bee-eaters, rollers, hoopoes, larks, pipits, wagtails, shrikes, oriels, songbirds — many arriving early March to April.

• Autumn migrants: Shrikes, cranes (e.g., Demoiselle Cranes), Honey Buzzards, Lesser Spotted and Pallid Harriers, Egyptian Vulture, storks, etc.

Winter Visitors

• Includes ducks, geese (White-fronted Geese), Stonechats, Bluethroats, Reed Bunting, Finsch’s Wheatear, Wallcreeper, and offshore shearwaters

Best Birdwatching Locations in North Cyprus

Location	Highlights
Kyrenia Mountains & Kantara Castle	Endemics like Cyprus Warbler, Blue Rock Thrush, Wheatear; raptors such as Bonelli’s Eagle, peregrine, booted eagle, and Griffon Vulture
Karpas Peninsula & Klidhes Islands	Migratory bee-eaters, rollers, orioles; sea birds like Audouin’s Gull, cormorants, shags; breeding Peregrines
Wetlands & Reservoirs	Famagusta wetlands and salt lakes attract flamingos, herons, ducks; reservoirs like Geçitköy, Gönyeli, Kanlıköy, Koprulu are excellent for waterfowl
Coastal & Buffer Zones	Coastal sites like Kaplica Beach and Nicosia’s buffer zone host shorebirds and raptors, benefiting from low disturbance
Urban & Plains Areas	Haspolat sewage treatment and Mesaoria plains (Kukla Reservoir) support many migrants and wintering species; ideal for local engagement

Conservation & Community Efforts

• KUŞKOR (North Cyprus Society for the Protection of Birds and Nature) plays a critical role in conservation since 1988, through education, bird ringing programs, monitoring, and establishing Important Bird Areas (IBAs)

• Their ringing scheme has banded over 6,500 birds across 132 species, aiding scientific understanding and conservation

• KUŞKOR also worked on monitoring Audouin’s Gulls, Bonelli’s Eagles, and reintroduction of Rollers through nest box schemes

When to Go and How to Prepare

• Spring (March–May) and Autumn (August–October) are peak times for migration — expect large numbers and abundant diversity

• Winter months remain rewarding for wintering species and raptors.

• Recommended gear: binoculars, field guide (e.g. Birdwatching in Cyprus), lightweight layers, and a camera if you're into bird photography.

Bonus: Guided Experience

Join a professional-guided tour paired with expert Kenan Hürdeniz — perfect for combining birdwatching with photography at stunning natural sites in North Cyprus.

In summary: North Cyprus is a remarkable birdwatching gem, rich in endemic species, migrants, and diverse habitats—from mountains and reservoirs to wetlands and coastal stretches. Combined with active local conservation and welcoming guided options, it's an ideal destination for both casual bird lovers and dedicated enthusiasts. Let me know if you'd like help planning a trip or exploring specific spots or species!