The year 2024 was a challenging one for BirdLife Cyprus, marked by the loss of our beloved Director, colleague and friend, Martin. His absence is deeply felt, but we continue to honor his legacy by continuing the work he passionately led. Despite the difficulties, our commitment to the conservation of our island’s biodiversity remains unwavering. Here are some of the highlights of what we accomplished together in 2024.

“Thkio Mosfilies”, a new hub for environmental learning

We have been working hard to create an outdoor learning space with natural habitats, including two ponds enhanced with natural landscaping as well as paths for visitors. Together with a local high school we planted a herb and aromatics garden to support pollinators and built a bee hotel and hibernaculum for wildlife. Three beehives were also installed to encourage pollination and provide food for birds. These efforts, combined with eco-friendly infrastructure like composting facilities, make the site a model for environmental education and conservation. We look forward to welcoming visitors and schools in 2025 at Thkio Mosfilies in Frenaros! Learn more at birdlifecyprus.org/thkio-mosfilies

Progress in combating wildlife poisoning

In 2024, together with our partners, we achieved key milestones in the conservation of Cyprus’ most threatened bird, the Griffon Vulture. Through the EU-funded LIFE project “LIFE with Vultures,” collaborative efforts with local and international partners tackled threats like poisoning and collisions, worked towards reducing mortality rates, and strengthened the vulture population with 44 birds transferred from Spain. The anti-poison dog units continued their patrols in the countryside, awareness campaigns took place in key communities, while partnerships with authorities advanced wildlife crime investigations. Two poisoning cases are already before the courts. This was also the year that works started to install anti-collision markers on identified high-risk powerlines. This was done in collaboration with Electricity Authority of Cyprus and the Game and Fauna Service. Learn more at lifewithvultures.eu

Completion of the Darwin Project

The three-year project focused on the restoration and sustainable management of habitats in Akrotiri and Cape Pyla was successfully completed. The project aimed to protect, manage, and restore environmentally degraded areas while promoting Akrotiri as an eco-tourism destination for wildlife observation and enjoyment. Key achievements included collaborating with relevant stakeholders to develop a reed management plan to boost biodiversity at Zakaki Marsh, creating a marketing strategy the local beef of Akrotiri Marsh, clearing drainage channels, and safeguarding rare plants through planting, pollination, and seed storage. Additionally, we organized successful festivals with over 500 participants, among other initiatives. Learn more at visitakrotiri.cy

Inspiring the next generation of nature advocates

In 2024, we connected with over 2,700 students through educational programs and organized/co-organized 14 events that engaged nearly 1,000 participants. These initiatives played a pivotal role in fostering a love for nature among younger generations. By introducing children to Cyprus’ rich biodiversity, we are shaping the environmental stewards of tomorrow who will carry forward the mission of conservation. Learn more at birdlifecyprus.org/education

Your support makes a difference. Help us continue our vital work in conservation and education by donating today.