Travelling through Pafos Forest on the Northern Troodos Mountain range, one might feel a sense of mystery in the thick forest. Something appears and vanishes within an eyeblink. It’s none other than the Agrino, the elusive Cyprus mouflon, making a brief appearance. It is so representative of Cyprus’ wildlife that is featured on the 1, 2 and 5-cent Cyprus euro coins.

The Agrino is the largest endemic mammal in Cyprus and belongs to the wild sheep species of Ovis orientalis ophion. Archaeological excavations in the Choirokoitia Neolithic settlement revealed that Agrino has existed on the island for 8,000 years. Residues found all over the island indicate that, since its arrival, the animal had grown in big numbers, living without any territorial limits in a suitable environment rich in proper vegetation and without any threats.

The Agrino thrived during the Medieval period, making it a popular hunting game for the ruling class. However, with the arrival of firearms during the Ottoman rule (1571-1878), the Agrino population began to decline and continued this trend until 1939. With only 15 animals left, drastic measures had to be taken. That year, the entire Pafos Forest was designated as a permanent no-hunting zone, and all the shepherds and their herds were evicted from the area. Today, the population of Agrino amounts to 3,000 and inhabits the entire Pafos Forest, extending even to the western areas of Troodos.

Depending on the season, the Agrino’s outfit differs. In winter, its brown fur is thicker, and the shades on the neck, stretching along its back, are a deeper brown. In summer, both fur and shades become lighter. Male Agrinos can be easily identified by their imposing horns and size. They are one meter tall and weigh up to 35 kg, while female Agrinos do not have horns, have light brown colored fur with no shades, and weigh up to 25 kg.

Agrino is an animal that likes being in groups. Generally, males socialize with other males, while females interact with other females. Only during the mating season (October-November) do dominant males form groups with females. In April-May, the agile newborn Agrinos start following their mother for about one year. Once the males are ready to proceed with their independent life, they leave, while the females always remain with the mother.

During warm summer days, they like lying under trees, enjoying shade and fresh air, while during cool winter days they are incredibly active with a non-stop running. A fenced area near the establishments of Forestry Department, both at Stavros Tis Psokas and in Platania forest station, is home to a number of Agrinos. Most probably, if you visit these places, the “pride” of the Cyprus forest will honor you with its appearance.