Illegal trade of ambelopoulia persists in Cyprus

On November 12, 2026, the Cyprus Game and Fauna Service reported that illegally trapped wild birds, known as ambelopoulia, are being sold on the black market for prices ranging from €80 to €150 per dozen. Petros Anagiotos, the Service’s spokesperson, highlighted that while these figures are estimates due to the clandestine nature of the trade, the market continues to operate in isolated areas.

Anagiotos noted that the scale of illegal bird trapping has decreased significantly over the past three decades. While thirty years ago the practice was widespread, it is now primarily confined to remote regions, with only a very small number of individuals currently engaging in the activity for financial gain. The Service continues to conduct inspections, and those caught participating in the illegal trade have been reported to the authorities.

The spokesperson also warned the public about the health risks associated with consuming these illegally captured wild birds. Ongoing efforts by the Game and Fauna Service aim to further suppress this practice, which remains a violation of conservation regulations and wildlife protection laws.