|
Cyprus Environment
Environment
Today, desertification, often the result of deforestation and soil
erosion, threatens much of the world's land surface. In Cyprus trees
have been felled for shipbuilding and there has also been over-grazing
by animals. Another important environmental issue is the problem of
water supplies.
Despite these environmental difficulties Cyprus has a variety of
flora. Trees include cypresses, eucalyptus, juniper, oak, olive, plane
and pines; flowers are flowering bulbs, cyclamen, cistus,
chrysanthemums, orchids, poppies and thyme.
Urbanisation has led to a decrease in wildlife habitats although there
are still a few moufflon (wild sheep) which is Cyprus' largest animal.
Small creatures are bats, lizards, chameleons, geckos, tree frogs,
snakes, and praying mantids. Loggerhead turtles lay their eggs on the
beach at Lara; there are also green turtles and monk seals (Akamas
Peninsula). Birds include birds of prey such as falcons and eagles.
The Salt Lakes near Larnaka and Limassol are home to migrating birds
and flamingoes in the cooler season of the year.
|
 |
|