Picture this: the tranquil Marsaxlokk Bay, Malta’s fishing village turned tourist hotspot, now echoing with an unusual silence. The quacks that once filled the air have faded, leaving behind a stark reminder of a recent tragedy. Several ducks, residents of the bay for decades, have perished, sparking an urgent appeal from Marsa Local Council.

A Bay Without Quacks: The Sad Reality

The once bustling duck population at Marsaxlokk Bay has dwindled, with several birds found dead in recent weeks. The council, concerned about the sudden decline, has launched an appeal to rehome the remaining ducks, fearing for their safety and well-being.

Marsa Mayor, Joe Saliba, shared, “We’ve always been proud of our bay’s unique charm, with ducks being a part of that. But now, we’re seeing fewer and fewer, and it’s worrying. We need to act before it’s too late.”

The Search for a New Home: A Challenging Task

Finding a new home for the ducks isn’t as simple as it sounds. The council is looking for a suitable location with clean water, plenty of space, and a safe environment. They’ve reached out to local NGOs, bird sanctuaries, and even private individuals, but finding the right fit has proven challenging.

“We’ve had offers, but we need to ensure the ducks’ welfare is the priority,” said Saliba. “We’re not just looking for a quick fix; we’re looking for a long-term solution.”

The Community Rallies: Hope Amidst Concern

News of the ducks’ plight has sparked an outpouring of concern from the local community. Residents and tourists alike have shared their memories of the ducks, with many eager to help. Some have offered to contribute to the cost of relocating the ducks, while others have suggested potential new homes.

Local business owner, Maria Grech, shared, “I’ve seen those ducks grow from little ducklings to what they are now. It’s heartbreaking to see them suffer. I’ve offered to help with the costs, and I hope others will too.”

Marsa’s quack-tastic dilemma has brought the community together, united in their desire to save the bay’s feathered residents. With the council’s appeal gaining traction, there’s hope that a solution can be found, ensuring the ducks’ survival and the bay’s unique charm.

If you have a suitable location or wish to contribute to the ducks’ relocation, please contact Marsa Local Council at marsalocalcouncil@gov.mt or call +356 2166 9300.