It’s that time of the year again when we turn our eyes to the skies. Millions of birds are leaving Europe to fly thousands of kilometres towards their wintering places in Africa. Now is the perfect time to head outdoors and tune in to the rhythm of the natural world. Join one of BirdLife Cyprus’ birdwatching events on Sunday 1 October to explore the magic and beauty of birds in the wild.

For many birds, Cyprus is part of the itinerary as the island is on a major migration route between Europe and Africa. On Sunday 1 October, we will be watching the autumn migration from different locations across Cyprus giving you a unique opportunity to see (with a bit of luck!) raptors, cranes, bee-eaters, herons and other species as they travel over the island during migration. You will also have the opportunity to find out how and why these birds migrate, their needs along their flyways, the threats they face and what BirdLife Cyprus does to protect them.

Participation is free and open to people of all ages and binoculars and telescopes will be provided for the better enjoyment of our feathered friends. Join us to watch birds at one of the following meeting points:

1. Athalassa Park, Nicosia. 09:30 – 12:00, Leaders: Martin Hellicar and Elena Markitani, Mobile: 99907893 / 99305085. Meet at the park’s bird hide (accessible from the south parking area – Latsia entrance). 

2. Akrotiri Peninsula, Limassol. 09:00 – 12:00, Leader: Stavros Christodoulides, Mobile: 99425050. Meet at Zakaki bird hide. 

3. Paphos Plain, Paphos. 09:00 – 12:00, Leader: Alan Crane, Mobile: 99276310. Meet at Larks Corner, Mandria seafront.

The events are part of EuroBirdwatch, an annual event that each year attracts tens of thousands of participants across Europe, sharing in diverse activities or just simply observing the birds as they migrate southwards. This year, 40 of the national partners of BirdLife International and cooperating organizations of 39 countries in Europe and Central Asia invite people to observe the birds and learn interesting facts about bird migration and threats they face during their journeys.

For more information and to register for the events please contact BirdLife Cyprus on 22455072 or at elena.markitani@birdlifecyprus.org.cy