A beachgoer near Paphos, Cyprus, made a startling discovery yesterday, stumbling upon the carcass of a massive squid that has sparked interest among local nature enthusiasts.
The creature, which measured well over half a meter in length, was identified by experts as a European flying squid (Todarodes sagittatus), also known locally in Greece as Afrokalamaro. The specimen was found washed ashore by Jo Christodoulides, who noted its impressive size—substantially larger than an adult’s foot.
Flying squids are deep-water inhabitants
While the sight of such a large marine animal is rare for casual beach walkers, marine experts suggest the occurrence is a natural, albeit dramatic, phenomenon. European flying squids are deep-water inhabitants that can grow up to one meter in length and weigh over 10 kilograms.
“These squids are oceanic creatures that spend most of their lives in the deep sea,” experts explained. “It is common to find them washed up on the shore in a weakened or dying state immediately following their spawning season. These animals are short-lived, and the exhaustion resulting from their reproductive migration often leaves them vulnerable to currents and tides.”
The species, a familiar sight to Mediterranean fishermen, is known for its ability to leap from the water to escape predators, earning it the “flying” moniker. While the beaching of these creatures is part of their natural life cycle, it serves as a stark reminder of the diverse and often mysterious wildlife inhabiting the deep waters just off the Cypriot coast.
Related: Giant Squid Caught in Greece
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