21,592 Waterbirds of 72 Species Recorded in Cyprus

The Society for the Protection of Birds and Nature (KUŞKOR) and BirdLife Cyprus have completed their annual waterbird census across the island, documenting a total of 21,592 birds from 72 different species.

The survey, conducted between January 17 and 20, covered 72 wetland sites. Organizers highlighted a welcome increase in waterbird numbers after two years of below-average counts.

According to KUŞKOR, the Eurasian spoonbill was the most numerous species, with 6,217 individuals recorded. Great cormorants came in second, with a total count of 3,035.

While previous years saw consistently low populations of common shelducks and golden plovers, this year marked a significant rebound for both species.

However, flamingo numbers remain critically low for the third consecutive year. Over the past decade, the number of these wintering birds in Cyprus has declined dramatically.

The largest waterbird gathering was observed at Paralimni Lake, which hosted 4,097 birds. Larnaca Salt Lakes followed with 3,421, while the Haspolat wastewater treatment lagoons recorded 3,141 individuals.

Additionally, Haspolat was home to 580 northern lapwings and 134 ferruginous ducks—both globally threatened species listed in the Red Data Book.

The Midwinter Waterbird Census (MWCWC), held annually in January, brings together ornithologists and environmental organizations for a synchronized count of birds across different regions.

This coordinated effort provides valuable insights into waterbird populations, helping track regional and global trends in their numbers.