Paradise for mouflon sheep - in the middle of the UN protected zone

Unusual orchids and the endangered Egyptian fruit bat are some of the species noted in the 180 km long no-man's land that cuts through Cyprus.

In the UN's protected buffer zone, human activity is low and biologists believe that it has become a unique place for flora and fauna.

The area is a demilitarized zone and is patrolled by UN peacekeeping forces.

Cypriot biologists hope that the area will continue to be protected as a nature reserve, in case talks between Greek and Turkish Cypriots would result in a permanent reconciliation.