Ophrys kotschyi is one of the most remarkable orchids of Cyprus and belongs to the 141 plant species and subspecies that are endemic to our island, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world.
It blooms from February to April. Its lower petal has evolved to resemble a bee. Through visual and scent cues, it “deceives” male insects into visiting it, successfully achieving pollination in the process.
Despite its beauty, the “Bee Orchid” is fighting for survival. The main threats it faces today are the fragmentation and degradation of its natural habitats, as well as their permanent loss. Uncontrolled residential and tourism development, road construction, and land clearing divide and reduce the areas where it grows, making reproduction and survival increasingly difficult.
To protect this emblematic orchid, Special Areas of Conservation have been designated within the Natura 2000 network, including the Mitsero–Agrokipia and Mammari–Deneia areas. The Bee Orchid is a living treasure of Cyprus’ natural heritage, deserving the respect and attention of us all. Protecting natural habitats is essential to ensure that species such as Ophrys kotschyi continue to bloom in the future, enriching our island and preserving its unique biodiversity.
