Stray dogs are killing mouflon and affecting their reproduction around the Paphos Forest, with the Game and Fauna Service confirming that the problem has intensified in recent years.
The issue returned to the spotlight following concerns raised by Kambos community council president Ioannis Papadopoulos, who said packs of dogs have repeatedly been seen chasing mouflon in and around the village.
Problem extends along the forest boundary
The Game and Fauna Service said the problem is not limited to Kambos but affects areas along the edges of the Paphos Forest bordering the buffer zone, from Orkondas to Pyrgos.
Game and Fauna Service spokesman Petros Anagiotos said the authorities have been aware of the issue for some time.
He said the dogs are mainly strays coming from the occupied areas and are affecting wildlife in the region.
According to Anagiotos, the scale of the problem is significant enough to affect mouflon reproduction. He added that the attacks are not limited to young or vulnerable animals, with mature and larger mouflon also killed.
Authorities face difficulties controlling packs
Anagiotos said the legislation on dogs gives authorities several options for dealing with stray animals, including trapping and, in extreme cases, euthanasia.
However, he said the scale and nature of the problem make it difficult to address effectively.
The Game and Fauna Service also rejected reports that the animals involved are hunting dogs, stressing that they are packs of stray dogs.
The Department of Forests is also aware of the issue, according to the service.
Warning over possible risk to people
Beyond the threat to wildlife, Anagiotos warned that people could also face a risk if they encounter the packs.
Papadopoulos had previously shared photographs on social media, including one showing a dead mouflon on the Orkondas-Kambos road.
He said there have been numerous incidents involving packs chasing mouflon inside and outside Kampou, while questioning how such a large area could be effectively controlled.
The community leader also said state services face difficulties in managing the situation on their own.
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