The site includes parts of Kithira and the adjacent islets. Human activities include arable agriculture, livestock-farming, tourism, hunting, and fishing. There is also some military use of the site.
Key biodiversity
Two hundred and thirty-six species have been recorded. The site is a migratory bottleneck, where more than 3,000 raptors regularly pass in autumn. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila heliaca (up to 2 wintering individuals), Falco naumanni (passage).
Pressure/threats to key biodiversity
Threats come from uncontrolled grazing, fire, and land reclamation for building. Hunting is also a threat, particularly during autumn. Part of the area is a candidate SAC.
Protected areas
National Partial International Low3,000 ha of IBA covered by Wildlife Refuge (Thalaria Kythiron, 3,000 ha). 75 ha of IBA covered by Special Protection Area (Nisides Kythiron: Prasonisi, Dragonera, Antidragonera, 989 ha).
