Newsroom
The Forestry Department has issued an urgent appeal to hunters ahead of the opening of the hunting season on Sunday, August 24, 2025, urging them to exercise extreme caution in rural and forested areas to prevent wildfires.
The department specifically called on hunters not to light fires for any reason and to avoid discarding lit cigarettes or matches. High temperatures and prolonged drought across Cyprus have significantly increased the risk of wildfires, which could have devastating consequences for the environment and the country.
“The recent wildfire in the mountainous Limassol district should concern all of us,” the department said. “Disposing of spent cartridges in the environment constitutes serious pollution and is prohibited under the Law on the Protection and Management of Wild Birds and Game. Hunters are therefore urged to collect their empty cartridges when leaving.”
The Forestry Department reminded the public that lighting fires in forested and rural areas is strictly prohibited and punishable under the Forests Law with imprisonment of up to 12 years, a fine of up to €100,000, or both. Fires are allowed only at designated barbecue areas in the department’s recreational sites for cooking purposes.
The department urged anyone who notices smoke or fire in or near forests to immediately call 1407 (Forestry Department) or 112 (Fire Service).
