Concerns for Rare Local Livestock Breeds in Cyprus Due to Foot-and-Mouth Disease
April 28, 2026
Foot-and-mouth disease is affecting rare local livestock breeds in Cyprus. The impacted breeds include the Cypriot fat-tailed sheep and red cattle. Veterinary Services are considering postponing the culling of these animals to preserve biodiversity. The population of the Cypriot fat-tailed sheep is only 1,185, while the red cattle number 1,243. A nationwide vaccination of all cattle will commence to curb the spread of the virus.