Residents of Northern Cyprus Warned About Peak Activity of Venomous Snakes

In Northern Cyprus, with the onset of sustained hot weather, the mating season has begun for reptiles. Local biologist and ecologist Nazym Kashot urged the island's residents to exercise maximum caution during picnics and hikes in the mountains. Six species of snakes live in the territory of the TRNC, three of which are venomous. The greatest danger is posed by the gyurza, known among the local population as “gufi” (Koca Engerek).

When encountering a snake, one must not act aggressively, and in the event of a bite, self-treatment is strictly forbidden: cutting the wound, cauterizing it, or trying to suck out the venom. The victim should be moved as little as possible to slow the spread of toxins through the body, and urgently hospitalized at a state hospital for antivenom administration.

The ecologist also noted that due to the large-scale pace of construction on the island, the natural habitat of wild animals is rapidly shrinking, which forces them to increasingly come out into residential areas and people's recreational spots.