Newsroom
As Cyprus moves into the peak summer season and beaches across Protaras and the wider Famagusta district fill with locals and tourists, authorities in Paralimni–Deryneia are urging calm following reports of a snake spotted near a coastal area.
The municipality issued a statement on Friday expressing concern over how the incident was presented in some reports, saying they created “unnecessary concern and false impressions among the public.”
Officials clarified that the footage in question was taken in a “rocky, natural, and secluded coastal area” within municipal boundaries, stressing that the location is not an organized beach and does not include sunbeds, umbrellas, or other beach infrastructure.
The municipality also identified the snake as a “pervolaris” or “therkos”, a species commonly found in Cyprus and, according to the statement, non-venomous and generally harmless to humans.
With thousands of visitors expected to flock to the island’s eastern coastline this summer, authorities are reminding the public to stay calm and respect local wildlife.
The municipality called on residents and visitors to avoid disturbing, harassing, or harming animals if they are encountered and instead keep a safe distance and notify relevant services if necessary.
It added that it is monitoring the situation in cooperation with competent authorities, with a focus on public safety, accurate information, and environmental protection.
At the same time, officials stressed the importance of responsible reporting, particularly when it comes to issues that may affect the image of popular tourist destinations such as Protaras.
The municipality also warned it reserves its legal rights over any publications it considers to have unfairly harmed the reputation of the area, saying it continues efforts to promote Paralimni–Deryneia as a safe and attractive destination in Cyprus and abroad.
