Our annual migration monitoring camp, Raptor Camp 2014, began today! Running from 15th September to 30th September, we will be out in the Maltese countryside, monitoring migration and deterring illegal hunting. Malta is an excellent stopover for many European bird of prey species migrating south to Africa for the winter. Migration of raptors normally reaches a peak during the last two weeks of September, with many birds falling victim to illegal hunting during this period, which coincides with the beginning of the hunting season.
Sightings today included Marsh Harriers, Bee-eaters, Honey Buzzards and more…
This year we are lucky to be joined by volunteers from 7 different countries, including Finland, Ireland and Australia. This is certainly no holiday, but a great way to meet like-minded people and get stuck into some real conservation work.
Get Involved!
Local
We’re asking Maltese residents to get involved by reporting instances of illegal hunting. In particular we want to ensure people know what to do if they see a protected species being targeted, or find an injured bird.
You can find all the information on what is legal and what is illegal here, and a list of the huntable species for this autumn season here. Any species not listed here is illegal to hunt, and should be reported immediately to the police.
If you witness an illegality, you should call the ALE on 119.
BirdLife also runs an injured bird response team which can reached on 21347646.
Overseas
For supporters abroad, we would appreciate it if you could help us on social media. We are trying to raise awareness for many issues, including the targeting of protected species and the permanent change in the autumn hunting curfew from 3pm to 7pm.
And you can also find us on Facebook. Please do share our updates, and encourage others to get involved to help birds and nature in Malta.
Stay tuned for daily blogs!
Photo by Ella Beeson
