Feathers Fly as 72% of Hunters Admit to Illegal Turtledove Shooting

Imagine the scene: a crisp autumn morning in the Maltese countryside. The sun is barely up, but already the air is filled with the rhythmic chirping of turtledoves. Suddenly, a cacophony of gunshots echoes through the valleys, shattering the peaceful symphony. This is not a rare occurrence, but a stark reality that has left Malta’s bird enthusiasts and conservationists reeling.

BirdLife Malta’s Shocking Findings

According to a recent survey conducted by BirdLife Malta, a staggering 72% of hunters admitted to illegally shooting turtledoves during the 2021-2022 hunting season. The survey, which polled 176 hunters, also revealed that a significant number of respondents exceeded their legal bag limit, with some even admitting to shooting protected species.

The illegal activities were not confined to the countryside. Some hunters confessed to shooting turtledoves from their balconies in urban areas like Birkirkara and Msida, raising serious concerns about public safety and the disturbance caused to local residents.

Legal Loopholes and Lack of Enforcement

BirdLife Malta’s findings have once again highlighted the contentious issue of hunting regulations and their enforcement in Malta. Despite the legal hunting season for turtledoves being closed, hunters are permitted to shoot them under the guise of ‘control’ measures. However, the lack of clear definitions and strict monitoring has led to widespread abuse of this provision.

the lenient penalties for hunting offenses have done little to deter illegal activities. Fines for hunting protected species, for instance, remain relatively low, with repeat offenders often getting away with slap-on-the-wrist penalties.

Community Backlash and Calls for Stricter Measures

The survey’s results have sparked outrage among environmentalists and the general public. Many have taken to social media to express their disgust at the hunters’ brazen disregard for the law and the environment. Several local NGOs have also called for stricter penalties and better enforcement of hunting regulations.

Dr. Nicholas Barbara, CEO of BirdLife Malta, has urged the government to take immediate action. “The results of our survey are alarming and underscore the urgent need for stricter enforcement and tougher penalties,” he said. “We cannot continue to turn a blind eye to these illegal activities. It’s high time we protect our birds and our environment for future generations.”

In response to the survey, the Malta Police Force has pledged to step up patrols and increase surveillance in known hunting hotspots. However, many remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures in the absence of significant policy changes.

What Can You Do?

If you witness any illegal hunting activities, report them immediately to the Malta Police Force on 119 or the Environmental Protection Department on 2292 3500. You can also anonymously report illegal hunting activities to BirdLife Malta’s confidential hotline on 7949 7357.

Let’s not stand by and watch as our feathered friends are decimated. Together, we can make a difference and protect Malta’s rich avian heritage.