An endangered Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug), one of the rarest birds of prey to visit Malta, has been found shot near Żebbuġ, Gozo, according to BirdLife Malta. The organisation said the bird was discovered with an old, maggot-infested wing fracture and did not survive despite rescue efforts.
The Saker Falcon, the largest falcon species that can be seen in Malta, is an exceptionally rare visitor, with only one or two individuals typically recorded each autumn. Globally, the species is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with fewer than 15,000 breeding pairs remaining. Populations are in decline across Europe and Central Asia due to habitat loss, electrocution, and illegal hunting.
BirdLife Malta said the rarity of the species makes it a highly sought-after target for illegal taxidermy collectors, and it suspects this may have been the motive in the Gozo case. The group described the incident as “tragic” and called for stronger enforcement of wildlife protection laws.
While hunting the species carries heavy penalties under Maltese law, BirdLife Malta argued that these fines have proven insufficient to deter offenders. The organisation also highlighted the lack of dedicated environmental enforcement officers stationed on Gozo, calling it a “critical gap” that allows such acts to go unchecked.
“Despite strict legal protection, rare birds of prey continue to fall victim to illegal shooting,” BirdLife Malta said. “Without consistent enforcement and proper resources, Malta’s wildlife remains vulnerable.”
Birdlife Malta added that ongoing political rhetoric about reducing fines or maintaining the status quo on enforcement sends “the wrong message” and risks further harm to endangered species.
Authorities have not yet issued a statement on the incident.
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