The IBA includes Akrotiri salt-lake, reedbeds and gravel pits, Bishop's Pool, Zakaki pools, and Ladie's Mile beach. The salt-lake dries out in summer, and is surrounded by reedbeds and saltmarsh. There are vineyards and orange groves in the vicinity of Bishop's Pool, which is a man-made reservoir taking surplus treated effluent from the Akrotiri sewage-treatment works.
Key biodiversity
This site is of major importance as a staging area during spring and autumn passage. It is also important for wintering waterbirds, especially Phoenicopterus ruber and Anas spp. Bird data are averaged for 1990-1995. Many species are recorded regularly every year, ranging from raptors and large waterbirds to small warblers (Sylviidae) and finches (Fringillidae). Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (up to 20 wintering birds) and Circus macrourus (1-2 passage birds).
Pressure/threats to key biodiversity
The area is threatened with drying-out following the construction of a dam on the River Kouris, which was a source of water during the winter. Shooting from the lake shores, especially at night, indiscriminately kills birds. There is a need for the entire area to be designated as a Permanent Game Reserve.
Protected areas
National Partial International None2,000 ha of IBA covered by Permanent Game Reserve (Akrotiri Lake, 2,000 ha).
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2023) Important Bird Areas factsheet: Akrotiri salt-lake including Bishop's Pool. Downloaded from
http://www.birdlife.org on 24/03/2023.
