Flora & Fauna of North Cyprus

Orchids and Endemic Species

Of the approximately 1,900 plant species found across Cyprus, about 1,500 occur in North Cyprus. The region’s Mediterranean climate, with over 300 days of sunshine per year, plays a major role in supporting this remarkable biodiversity.

The vegetation of North Cyprus includes 19 endemic plant species, found nowhere else on Earth. Among these are 32 species of wild orchids, including one orchid species (Orchis kotschyi) that is endemic to North Cyprus itself.

The most famous endemic plant is the striking Medoş Tulip (Tulipa cypria), which grows in the villages of Tepebaşı and Avtepe, where a festival is held in its honor every March. These rare flowers, along with all orchid species, ancient olive trees, and other valuable flora and fauna, are strictly protected under conservation laws.

The 710-Year-Old Sycamore Fig

An iconic symbol of historical continuity is the ancient sycamore fig tree that stands in front of the Cathedral of St. Nicholas (now Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque) in Famagusta. Planted around 1298, when the cathedral’s construction began, the tree has silently witnessed the Lusignan, Venetian, Ottoman, and British periods, and it still thrives today.

This protected Sycamore Fig (Ficus sycomorus) is believed to be the oldest living tree in Cyprus, estimated to be over 710 years old.

The Wild Donkeys of Karpas

Among the most beloved creatures in North Cyprus are the wild donkeys of the Karpas Peninsula. Living freely in the Karpas National Park, these docile, reliable, and resilient animals are as much a part of the landscape as the region’s untouched beaches and unique plant life.

With their gentle nature and strikingly expressive eyes, the donkeys attract both admiration and curiosity. They are considered a symbol of the region, and their well-being is carefully monitored as part of ongoing conservation efforts.

Birds and Butterflies

Thanks to its strategic location on migration routes, North Cyprus is a paradise for birdwatchers. Over 370 bird species can be spotted across the island during different times of the year, especially in spring and autumn, when migration peaks.

In addition to birds, North Cyprus is also home to more than 50 species of butterflies. These delicate creatures, each more beautiful than the last, flit across the countryside and forests, offering brief moments of color and magic to those lucky enough to spot them.

Marine Turtles

Two species of marine turtles nest on the beaches of North Cyprus: the Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) and the Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas).

Each summer, more than 200 turtles from each species come ashore to lay their eggs. The best time to witness egg-laying is from late June to early July, while hatchlings emerge from the sand in August and early September.

For those who wish to observe this remarkable natural event, Alagadi, Akdeniz, and Karpas beaches are the key locations — with conservation teams on site to guide visitors and protect the nesting grounds.