Four Birds Illegally Shot In Protected Maltese Sanctuaries
Four birds were illegally shot in protected bird sanctuaries just last week, BirdLife Malta posted.
“The wave of illegal hunting continues on all the species that are currently passing through Malta, with reports and more victims of illegalities coming in every day,” a post on the organisation’s social media reads.
The illicit hunting occurred in Buskett and Għadira where an Arpa (Harp), Qerd in-Naħal (Bee Eater), Buqrajq (Nightjar), and Gawwija Prima (Yellow Legged-Gull) were shot.
A hunter was caught by the public shooting a Bee Eater in Buskett, on 18th September. The bird was then collected and handed over to the Environmental Protection Unit (EPU).
The following day, a wounded Nightjar was also picked up from the protected area.
Meanwhile, an injured Harp was collected from the natural reserve of Għadira two days ago by Birdlife Malta.
A Yellow-Legged Gull met the same fate and was found dead in the Salina Nature Reserve that same day.
All the birds were confirmed as victims of illegal hunting by the state veterinarian.
These were four out of eight cases of illegal hunting since 18th September with two Bee Eaters and one Collared Dove collected by the police. As well as an injured Gray Russett which was saved yesterday and taken to rehabilitation where it was certified that it was full of lead.
If you spot a case of illegal hunting be sure to report it to BirdLife Malta by calling 21347645 or 79255697, or the EPU on 119.
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