Malta Hunters Breathe Sigh of Relief with Extended EU Lead Shot Ban
In the heart of Rabat, Malta, at the bustling Mercantile Street, you’ll find the headquarters of the Malta Hunters’ Federation. Here, the air is filled with the hum of conversation, not just about the latest catch, but about the future of their sport. The topic on everyone’s lips? The EU’s lead shot ban.
EU’s Lead Shot Ban: A Shift in the Horizon
The EU’s decision to phase out lead shot for hunting has been a hot topic in Malta’s hunting community. The ban, aimed at protecting birds and the environment, has been a significant change for Maltese hunters who have traditionally used lead shot. The initial deadline was set for January 2021, but a transition period was recently extended to 2025. This news has been welcomed by local hunters, who see it as a breathing space to adapt.
Adapting to the New Normal
Malta’s hunters are not against the ban, but they understandably need time to adjust. Steel and other non-toxic alternatives are more expensive and less available locally. “It’s not just about the cost,” says Joe, a veteran hunter from Rabat. “We need time to get used to these new shots, to understand their trajectory, their impact.” The extended transition period allows them this time.
Local hunting clubs are also playing a crucial role. They’re organising workshops and training sessions to help hunters switch to non-toxic ammunition. The Federation of Hunting and Conservation, for instance, is actively promoting these initiatives.
: A New Era of Hunting
Malta’s hunters are not just adapting, they’re innovating. They’re exploring new techniques, new equipment, and new ways to preserve their tradition while respecting the environment. “This ban is not the end of hunting,” says Mario, a young hunter from Siggiewi. “It’s a new chapter. We’re turning the page, but the story continues.”
As Malta’s hunters look towards 2025, they’re not just seeing a deadline, they’re seeing an opportunity. An opportunity to evolve, to learn, and to ensure that their sport remains a sustainable part of Malta’s cultural scene.
