Flora and Fauna of Kythira

The island of Kythira, located at the southeastern tip of the Peloponnese, is a unique ecosystem with rich biodiversity. Due to its geographical location, the variety of microclimates and the relatively limited human intervention in several areas, the island is home to a unique combination of flora and fauna species.

The flora of Kythira is particularly rich and diverse, with many native and endemic species. The presence of gorges, streams, and dry hills contributes to the appearance of different types of vegetation.

Species and plant communities

Mediterranean maquis vegetation: Includes shrubs such as kumari, schinos, holly and laurel.
Buckthorn vegetation: With dominant plants such as thyme, oregano, asfaka and olive tree.
Forest areas: Although limited, there are areas with low pine forests (mainly Aleppo pine).
Riverine and wetland vegetation: Reeds, plane trees and wild fig trees in the stream beds and waterfalls (e.g. Mylopotamos).

Endemic and rare plants

Kythera is home to endemic plants such as:
Centaurea kytherae – a species of cornflower found only on the island.
Limonium spp. – various species of meadowsweet (stamnagathi), adapted to the salty coasts.
The presence of orchids is also significant, with over 25 species recorded, several of which are rare and protected.

Fauna of Kythira

The fauna of Kythira is also rich, with a wide variety of birds, reptiles, insects and marine species.

Birds

Kythira is a stopover for migratory birds between Europe and Africa. Important species:
Falcons and raptors such as the black-footed kestrel (Falco eleonorae), the kestrel and the short-toed eagle.
Seabirds such as the herring gull and the black-backed gull.
Small passerines such as the black-backed tern, the black-backed tern and the black-backed tern.
The area around the northern rock of Hytra is an important habitat for seabirds and protected species.

Reptiles and amphibians

Lizards such as the Greek trilineata (Lacerta trilineata) and the Cycladic viper (although not particularly common).
Snakes such as the woodcock (non-venomous).
Amphibians: Frogs and toads are found in wet areas, especially near springs and streams.

Mammals

The land mammal fauna is limited:
Hedgehogs, weasels and hares are the most common species.
Wild cats (Kytherian wild cats) used to exist, but are now considered extinct.

Marine fauna

The sea of ​​Kythera is home to a rich marine life:
Sea turtles such as the Caretta caretta, which come to lay their eggs on the island’s beaches.
Monk seals, rare but have been observed on isolated beaches.
Rich fish fauna, with fish such as bream, groupers, conger eel, octopus and cuttlefish.

Protection and conservation
Due to the island’s biodiversity, several areas on Kythira have been included in the Natura 2000 network. Of particular importance is the protection of endemic plants and migratory birds.
In addition, environmental education programs and local initiatives are trying to raise awareness of the need to protect the island’s natural wealth.