Communities around the Akrotiri wetlands are set to receive additional protection against mosquitoes, following the introduction of a new trapping scheme by the British Bases.
A total of 14 mosquito trapping units were officially handed over on 15 June to local authorities, with ten allocated to Kourion municipalities and four to Limassol municipalities. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to reduce both nuisance and potential health risks linked to mosquito activity in the area.
The Akrotiri Salt Lake and surrounding marshland make up the largest wetland complex in Cyprus and serve as a key stop for migratory birds. While the area attracts visitors throughout the year, it also provides ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, despite existing control programmes.
Officials say the new trapping system will complement existing measures, with traps operating during the summer and autumn months. The approach focuses on environmentally friendly methods that aim to minimise the impact on both people and wildlife.
Authorities will monitor the mosquito species collected through the traps on a weekly basis, allowing experts to better track patterns and adjust control measures where necessary. At the same time, residents are being urged to play their part by preventing standing water in private areas and using protective measures such as repellents, especially during early morning and evening hours.
The initiative also highlights cooperation between the Sovereign Base Areas Administration and local municipalities. The trapping units will be maintained by local authorities, while specialist teams will continue to analyse collected samples and share their findings with experts in the Republic of Cyprus.
Officials described the move as an important step in strengthening joint efforts to manage mosquito populations in one of the island’s most environmentally sensitive areas.
