FKNK Asks Minister To Allow Hunting Of Vulnerable Turtle Dove In Upcoming Spring Hunting Season
The FKNK has submitted its proposals to the Hunting Minister to apply derogations for the hunting of turtle dove and quail for spring 2023, as well as carry out research on the migration of turtle doves through the use of clap-nets.
This comes in the wake of last month’s warning from the EU Commission to put a stop to the spring hunting of vulnerable turtle doves or face legal action.
Presenting a detailed document to Minister Clint Camilleri, the FKNK outlined the positive results that have emerged from their surveys and scientific studies on turtle dove hunting in previous years.
They also highlighted the successes of the FKNK Turtle Dove Project, which aims to increase the population of these birds in the wild through the release of captive-bred specimens.
The proposals will now be presented at the Malta Ornis Committee meeting for further consideration and recommendations.
During the meeting, the FKNK also addressed concerns raised by the European Commission regarding the opening of turtle dove hunting season in April 2022, and the case filed against Malta in the European Court related to the finches’ research programme.
The FKNK submitted two related documents containing detailed data and facts to assist the government in these cases.
Additionally, the meeting addressed challenges faced by FKNK trapper members during last year’s research and trapping seasons, including issues with plotted coordinates of trapping stations, police relationships, and taxidermy.
The issue of traditional hunting in Malta is a complex one, with strong opinions on both sides. While conservationists argue that these practices harm wildlife populations, hunting groups contend that it is a traditional and sustainable way of life that supports local economies.
However, it is important to note that any proposals for hunting must be grounded in scientific research and must be sustainable in the long term.
The FKNK contends that its proposals for the traditional hunting of turtle dove and quail in April 2023, as well as their research on turtle dove migration, are based on careful scientific study and evidence of positive results from previous hunting seasons.
It is now up to the Malta Ornis Committee to carefully consider these proposals and make recommendations that take into account both conservation concerns and the needs of local communities.
On the other hand, the EU Commission has already stated that “this derogation fails to comply with the conditions laid down in the Birds Directive and goes against the ongoing conservation efforts of the Member States and the Commission”.
The traditional hunting of turtle dove and quail in Malta has been a controversial topic for many years, with conservationists and hunting groups often at odds over whether or not it should be allowed.
Do you agree that the spring hunting season for turtle doves should be reopened?
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