Hydra (island) - Topography and Ecology

Topography and Ecology

The dominant geographic features of Hydra are its rocky hillsides, which are bare, pine forested valleys with the occasional farmhouse. The island was subject to a modern geologic study by Renz in 1955. Some of the later Permian limestone strata are rich in well-preserved fossils.

There are many types of wild flowers including rare 'spentzes' or cyclamen and poppies. As well as pine trees there are cypress and olive trees. Birds species include partridges, quails, and many migratory birds which are subject to local hunting. Mammals include rabbits, feral cats and goats. There are also said to be some reptiles and amphibians.

Although the island's name is derived from ancient springs known to the Ancient Greeks, it is now almost dry. Hydra previously had wells, and three new wells have been found. Today, the island imports its water by boat from the Greek mainland, but a new desalinization plant is now finished but not in operation. Many local people store winter rainfall in cisterns beneath their houses, to be used later as drinking water.

A savage fire during the intense heat of 2007 destroyed much of the pine forest to the east of Hydra port. However, the fire left untouched some forest above Kamini and at the west end of Hydra. The forest around Molos, Bisti, and Agios Nikolaous were also unaffected.

The island has almost no night-time light pollution. This is a boon to astronomy.