Newsroom
A rising number of snake sightings across Cyprus is prompting concern, and some dramatic warnings, from a local reptile rescuer who says even the island’s most determined newcomers might reconsider staying.
Yiannis Aggelis, known for responding to reports of snakes in homes and on private property, said in a recent live-streamed video that such incidents are becoming increasingly frequent. In his latest video, he filmed himself capturing a black snake that had wedged itself between stones in the village of Agios Tychonas.
“If I broadcasted everything live, most of you would be packing your bags to leave Cyprus,” he said with a smile. “Even the illegal migrants coming here would turn around and go back.”
Aggelis has consistently urged the public not to harm black snakes, which he stresses are harmless to humans and help control rodent populations. He warned that snake activity is likely to increase in the coming weeks.
“This season will be a big one. There will be a lot of snakes,” he said. “I get phone calls every day, but I don’t stream them all. If I did, most of you would be leaving.”
