Two cases of illegal hunting were reported in Malta‘s protected bird sanctuaries, namely Buskett and Comino, this month, raising an alarm for lax enforcement of conservation laws. BirdLife Malta had reported both incidents to authorities, stressing that more monitoring and protection were needed in these areas.
On 22nd November, hunters were caught in the Buskett sanctuary following woodcocks. Shotguns were confiscated by the Environmental Protection Unit and charges will be brought against the offenders. On 27th November, a hunter accompanied by dogs was filmed on Comino, yet another protected zone. The suspect has been identified and will face prosecution.
These incidents highlight the urgent need for agencies to step up enforcement,” said Nicholas Barbara, BirdLife Malta‘s Head of Conservation. He spoke of the lack of regular monitoring in protected areas as allowing illegal activities to continue.
While the authorities have acted quickly in these instances, BirdLife Malta insisted that “consistent patrols and stronger safeguards“ were required to protect Malta‘s sanctuaries, which are crucial for migratory and nesting birds. Without increased enforcement, these protected zones remain at risk.
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