**Fox Population Rises by 35 Percent in Cyprus**
The latest report from the game and fauna service has revealed a significant increase in the populations of foxes, hares, and pheasants in Cyprus over the past year. According to the data released on Wednesday, the fox population has surged by 35 percent, while pheasants and hares have also seen notable growth of 25 percent and 10 percent, respectively.
This rise in wildlife numbers is particularly encouraging for the game species that had been experiencing a decline in recent years. The game and fauna service highlighted that both pheasants and hares had been on a downward trend for the past five and three years, respectively. The service attributed the recent population increases to favorable environmental conditions, specifically increased rainfall since January 2026 and delays in hay production, which have contributed to the reproductive success of these species.
"The development sends a particularly encouraging message regarding the status of the two main game species," the service stated, emphasizing the positive implications for biodiversity and hunting activities in the region.
However, the report also noted that the same weather conditions that benefited foxes, hares, and pheasants have adversely affected local wood pigeons. The wood pigeon population has declined by 22 percent due to their different nesting behaviors, which have not adapted well to the increased rainfall. Despite this decline, the game and fauna service reassured that the wood pigeon population had been on a steady upward trend over the past two decades, indicating that the current dip is not a cause for alarm.
The increase in the fox population, while beneficial for the species itself, poses potential challenges for other wildlife. The game and fauna service warned that a growing fox population could threaten the stability of other species, particularly those that nest in sensitive habitats such as salt marshes and wetlands. "By its very nature, the presence of the fox acts as a limiting factor for the populations of both game animals and other species," the service explained.
The census data was collected through systematic surveys conducted in the Paphos and Larnaca districts, where wildlife officers recorded the numbers of hares, foxes, and stray animals along designated survey routes. In the Paphos district, the survey recorded 70 hares, 42 foxes, and 44 stray dogs, while the Larnaca district saw counts of 20 hares, 27 foxes, and 129 stray cats.
In light of these findings, the game and fauna service has committed to ongoing monitoring of wildlife populations. They plan to assess various factors affecting these species and implement necessary measures within the framework of relevant legislation to ensure ecological balance and the health of wildlife in Cyprus.
As the situation evolves, the game and fauna service will continue to keep the public informed about the status of wildlife populations and any actions taken to manage the delicate ecosystems in which these animals thrive.