BirdLife Cyprus is a registered non-governmental organization (NGO) that dedicates itself to the conservation of wild birds and their habitats in Cyprus. It was formed in 2003 through the merger of the two Cyprus Ornithological Societies and now has offices in Strakka, Nicosia.
BirdLife Cyprus is the Cyprus representative of BirdLife International – a globally active conservation organization that operates in over 100 countries and territories worldwide and is the recognized global authority on birds.
BirdLife Cyprus aims to promote the study and protection of the birds of Cyprus and their habitats, and to enable the citizens of Cyprus and other countries to play their part in achieving this goal.
The organization runs a number of campaigns and monitoring projects to ensure it can fight against activities that threaten wild birds, such as illegal hunting and trapping, and the destruction and degradation of habitats, with a particular focus on Important Bird Areas (IBAs).

What BirdLife Cyprus does

BirdLife Cyprus campaigns at both local and European levels on behalf of birds and their habitats here in Cyprus.

Effective conservation action is impossible without reliable bird population data. As well as producing monthly and annual reports for bird sightings, we have set up and run systematic and scientific monitoring schemes such as monthly counts of wetland birds, a common bird census and surveys of migrating raptors.
BirdLife Cyprus campaigns to ensure official designation of the scientifically identified IBAs as Special Protection Areas (SPAs). SPAs for part of the pan-European Natura 2000 network of biodiversity ‘hotspots’. These SPAs should be managed to ensure proper conservation of the bird species they support and sustainable development of local communities.
The predominantly low-intensity agriculture in Cyprus makes it an attractive place for birds. Agricultural intensification in Europe has had a well-documented and disastrous effect on farmland birds. BirdLife Cyprus promotes a set of practical programs to ensure local farming practices are kept wildlife-friendly.
BirdLife Cyprus is working to bring an end to illegal bird trapping. Birds trapped on limesticks and in nets die a horrible death and are then sold for profit to be eaten as an expensive ‘delicacy’. Many birds of threatened species fall foul to the indiscriminate nets and glue sticks. A recent opinion poll showed that the majority of Cypriots are against this illegal activity.
BirdLife Cyprus also works to raise awareness about the birds of Cyprus and issues that affect them and their habitats. This is done through a combination of articles in the local media and events/talks to introduce people to Cyprus’ birds.