The Environment Department had recently received complaints about the detection of a large number of fishing nets in various areas of the Municipalities and Communities of Famagusta District, in which there were trapped dead reptiles, birds and mammals. All species were trapped in the nets in such a way that they could not be released and died under the intense weather conditions of 40°C, without food and water. Similar incidents had occurred in the past and the municipalities had been informed of them. In order to combat this phenomenon, the Environment Department contacted the Municipal and Community Authorities to inform the residents about the above, so that they would immediately remove the various types of nets used to trap and kill the various reptiles.
Despite all the efforts that had been made, the phenomenon continues, resulting in more and more wildlife species being killed and renewed complaints from foreign tourists and residents in the area. To deal with this phenomenon, an operation to remove nets and inform the owners of the lodges began a few days ago. The campaign took place in the area of Ayia Napa and Cape Greco and was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, the Department of Environment, the Department of Veterinary Services, representatives of the Municipality of Ayia Napa and the Cyprus Police. During the operation, while the points were identified on the spot, an effort was made by the Police and the Municipal Authority, in the first stage, to identify and inform the owners and, once there was consent to intervene in their private property, the removal of the nets followed. It is noted that the quantity of nets removed was very large and the campaign will continue with the support of the Municipal Authorities and the Police.
In view of the above, the public is informed of the following. In Cyprus we find 22 species of reptiles which include eight species of snakes, including one endemic species and one endemic subspecies. Our local snakes are generally "peaceful" creatures and do not attack humans unless they are disturbed and/or feel threatened. Of the eight snakes found in Cyprus, three are venomous, but only one is dangerous to humans, the finch. Its characteristic external features are its triangular head, thick body and short tail.
(b) Some of the snake species found on our island are protected through the European Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. This Directive has been harmonised by Law 153(I)/2003, which provides for the Protection and Conservation of Nature and Wildlife. According to Article 21 of this Law, any form of intentional capture, killing or harassment of fauna species of Community interest is prohibited in the area of their natural distribution.
In view of the above, citizens are requested to immediately remove the various types of nets they use so that wildlife species are not trapped and killed. As a precaution against the bite of the finch, the public are urged to keep their premises clean, not to leave food exposed on their premises, never attempt to capture or kill snakes, not to go to places where there are very thick and tall grasses, and if found in such areas to wear sturdy and high shoes and never to put their hands uncovered in bushes, under stones, logs and others. He may also enclose his property with very thin metal wire (teli), so that, on the one hand, reptiles cannot pass through it and, on the other hand, various species of wildlife do not get trapped in it and die.
It is a fact that the balance in nature depends on the preservation of these species, as of course does all species of fauna and flora. The extinction of species is not only of moral importance, but is also essential to maintaining the balance of nature. The value of snakes to the environment is great, since they regulate, among other things, the numbers of rodents present in an ecosystem, without the need to place poisons, which are used to kill animals other than rats and mice. Each species of fauna is adapted to live in its natural habitat and its interactions with other species help it to survive in the ecosystem in which it lives. Many of these species are rare and endangered. A substantial contribution must be made by all of us to the survival and conservation of species in the various ecosystems, but at the same time to their protection from humans. If there is no contribution of all of us, the protection of the wild Cypriot fauna will not be achieved.
(MGS/SX)
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