A group of seven tourists from Estonia and the Netherlands have shared their shocking experience during a vacation in Gozo, highlighting serious concerns over gun violence, animal cruelty, and public safety. The group, who stayed in Nadur from 28th October to 2nd November, reported being disturbed by relentless gunshots and an alarming discovery of bird cruelty.
The travellers were initially drawn to Malta for its beauty and hospitality but were soon unnerved by the constant sound of gunfire near their accommodation. According to the group, the noise began at sunrise and continued until sunset every day, reportedly caused by locals shooting birds for sport. “We were shocked that such practices could happen in a European Union country,” said one of the tourists.
On the final day of their stay, the situation escalated when one of the tourists took a walk down a street leading into a valley, only to be startled by a gunshot. As she ventured further, she discovered dozens of small cages containing panicked birds, most likely thrushes, violently flapping inside. The disturbing sight left a lasting impact.
Shortly afterward, the shooter appeared, shouting at the tourist for being on “private property” and threatening to call the police. Despite the lack of warning signs, the individual continued to escalate the situation, even threatening the tourist with a firearm. “I was terrified and didn’t know what to do,” the tourist explained, adding that the encounter left the group shaken and fearful.
The group has now reached out to Maltese authorities and environmental organisations, urging action on the following points:
- The immediate cessation of bird trapping and shooting for amusement.
- Improved safety measures to prevent tourists and locals from unknowingly entering dangerous areas where gunfire is occurring.
- Identification of the individual responsible for threatening the tourist and ensuring he understands the potential risks posed by his actions, not just to animals, but to human safety as well.
“We hope our experience serves as a wake-up call for the Maltese authorities to take stronger action against these practices and protect both people and animals,” the tourist stated. The group is still waiting for a response from local organizations and authorities, hoping their concerns will lead to changes that will prevent future incidents.
The case has raised broader questions about animal cruelty and public safety in Malta, calling for a closer look at the regulation of hunting and the treatment of wildlife in the region.
Bird trapping season opened on the 20th October despite an EU court ruling that found Malta guilty of breaching the Birds Directive. “The European Commission considered bird trapping an unsustainable method of killing wild birds, however Malta still allows a trapping season each autumn,” BirdLife Malta had said.
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