On the frontlines is our monthly newsletter section covering the activities of BirdLife Malta’s conservation, policy and nature reserve (Salina, Simar, Għadira and Foresta 2000) teams, together with an update about rare and scarce bird species observed.
World Wetland Day & Ghadira Bird releases
World Wetlands Day is observed every year in February to raise awareness about the crucial role wetlands play in sustaining biodiversity. This global event marks the adoption of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 1971, emphasizing the importance of protecting and restoring these vital ecosystems. Wetlands act as natural water filters, protect against floods, and provide habitats for plants and animals.
To appreciate the biodiversity of our wetland Ghadira Nature Reserve and enjoy the very first bird releases event attended by members of the public, on the 10th of February the Conservation Team proceeded with a release of four different species of birds, explaining to the attendees which are the major causes of injuries when birds are kept to be used as live decoys during hunting or trapping season and also, which species are the most illegally shot birds according to our statistics.
We released one Hawfinch, probably an escapee from a trapping site, found with poor feathers conditions and mites. The team explained the consequences of the trapping season on finches. Then we released a Song Thrush, two Northern Lapwings and two Kestrels, of which one was equipped with a satellite tag.
A large number of people attended and expressed interest in our work, therefore the event was a success. In the hope to raise awareness of the problems facing bird conservation in Malta, this day will hopefully be remembered as the first of many.
Hunter admitted – Shooting and killing a Bee eater in Lippija
During November 2024, our conservation team recorded footage of a man shooting and killing a Bee-eater from a hunting hide in Lipppija. As a result, the incident was reported to the EPU. On the 7th of February, the magistrate fined the hunter following his admission of guilt. The Hunter received a 1000 EUR fine and a two-year hunting licence suspension.
Trapper admitted – Trapping on an unregistered trapping site in Ahrax
During the 2023 Trapping Season, our conservation team busted a finch trapper on an unregistered trapping site in Ahrax. The incident was reported to the EPU who proceed confiscating the live decoys and the nets used by the man. On the 7th of February, the magistrate fined the trapper following his admission of guilt. He received a 1200 EUR fine and a two-year trapping licence suspension.
Gozo Volunteers Training Day
On the 14th of February, passionate Gozitan volunteers gathered at the Volunteer Centre in Gozo for a special Training Day led by the Conservation Team. Eager to expand their skills, they learned how to assist in bird rescues, detect wildlife crimes, and support the team during the upcoming Spring Hunting season. Their dedication to hands-on conservation will strengthen bonds and provide crucial extra help from the sister island, making a real difference for bird conservation.
Salina Nature Reserve
Sightings
February was an eventful month at Salina Nature Reserve, with a variety of bird species making their presence known as preparations for spring migration began. Among the regular visitors, Black-headed Gulls and Mediterranean Gulls were frequently seen, joined by a couple of Common Gulls and Little Gulls taking advantage of the saltpans. The reserve also served as a resting place for Shelducks, Common Sandpipers, Green Sandpipers, and Little Ringed Plovers. Several Little Egrets basked in the sun along the stone walls before being joined by the first Grey Heron of the season, marking a promising start to the migration period.
Works
As the new tourist season approaches, preparations at Salina Nature Reserve were in full swing to ensure visitors have a memorable experience. The Salina team, including dedicated volunteers, carried out essential maintenance work across the site. The handrails and benches in the Dinja Waħda Garden received a fresh coat of primer, while the first birdwatching hide underwent renovations with a brand-new roof. Meanwhile, conservation efforts continued in the Salina Wetland, where young trees and rushes were planted to enhance the habitat for wildlife.
Despite being the low season, Salina remained a popular destination, hosting several organised tours for both local and international students. The Salt Museum exceeded expectations in visitor numbers, with the newly introduced hot coffee service adding to the overall experience. With these developments, the reserve is well-prepared to welcome nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers for the busy months ahead.
Għadira Nature Reserve
Sightings
February brought a diverse range of wintering birds to Għadira Nature Reserve, with daily sightings of three Black-necked Grebes, a Little Grebe, Water Rails, and Common Sandpipers. A couple of Kingfishers added a splash of colour to the reserve, while various passerines, including Stonechats, Meadow Pipits, and White Wagtails, were regularly observed. Two Water Pipits were seen frequently, and a slight increase in Song Thrush numbers was noted.
Early signs of spring migration appeared with the first sightings of House Martins and Swallows on a couple of days. Small numbers of Little Ringed Plovers were recorded almost daily, along with a few Green Sandpipers. Notably, a Common Ringed Plover and a Jack Snipe were also spotted, adding to the reserve’s exciting birdwatching opportunities.
Works
February saw significant progress on habitat restoration and visitor infrastructure at Għadira Nature Reserve. The birdwatching hide received finishing touches, including the installation of educational panels about key species such as the Mediterranean Killifish, Giant Sand Cricket, Sea Daffodil, and Mediterranean Chameleon. Additional works included the installation of window sills and skirting, improving the hide for visitors.
Efforts to protect the fragile sand dune ecosystem continued, with careful removal of invasive Sow Thistle plants, which were growing extensively on rare sand dune flora. Special care was taken to uproot these plants entirely to prevent regeneration and ensure native species could thrive.
A new artificial freshwater pond was also introduced near the birdwatching hide to demonstrate local freshwater ecosystems. It quickly became home to Painted Frogs—the only indigenous amphibian of the Maltese Islands—highlighting the importance of providing suitable habitats for local wildlife.
Simar Nature Reserve
Sightings
As winter gradually transitions into spring, nature at Simar Nature Reserve continues to thrive. Most Tamarisk trees are now covered in fresh green leaves, while several annual plants have burst into full bloom. A generous amount of rainfall helped reduce salinity levels in the wetland, further stimulating the growth of new reeds. This natural expansion of the reedbeds plays a vital role in supporting the wetland ecosystem.
February also marked the arrival of the first trans-Saharan migratory birds. House Martins were the first to reach our shores, filling the sky with their remarkable aerial manoeuvres. Soon after, Green Sandpipers and the first Barn Swallows were recorded. The return migration of wintering species was also evident, with increasing numbers of Common Stonechats, Blackcaps, and Common Chiffchaffs. A few Siberian Chiffchaffs were also observed, along with Reed Buntings, Song Thrushes, and Common Chaffinches. One of the most exciting sightings of the month was a Little Bunting—a rare visitor to the Maltese Islands.
White Wagtails continued to make daily stopovers at Simar, gathering in large numbers at sunrise and sunset to feed before moving on to their roosting sites. Meanwhile, some of the reserve’s wintering waterbirds began their migration, with the two male Mallards departing, while three Black-necked Grebes remained. The majority of the Common Coots were still present, and some displayed territorial behaviour, hinting at the start of the nesting season. Little Grebes, now in full breeding plumage, were also observed engaging in courtship displays. A Sardinian Warbler nest was already completed by mid-month, suggesting an early breeding season for this species.
Works
Essential conservation work was carried out in February to maintain the wetland’s ecological balance. Shoreline clearing took place in several areas, with a particular focus on removing the invasive Narrow-leaved Aster, an alien species that threatens native brackish vegetation. By clearing these areas, the reserve aims to encourage the recolonisation of native plant species, further enhancing the wetland’s biodiversity.
With the arrival of spring, Simar Nature Reserve is set to welcome more migratory birds and continue its vital role in conservation, providing a thriving habitat for both resident and visiting species.
Foresta 2000
Sightings
The rain and sun of February ensured the lush vegetation of Foresta 2000 remained healthy, green, and blooming! Glades of indigenous plants, associated with Greek mythology, like the French Daffodil (Narċis in Maltese), were at their peak bloom. You may also spot the common and bright purple plant from the Fabaceae family – Sulla (Silla in Maltese), which should be in bloom until May. Many flowers are in bloom along the path to the cliffs, as well as Wild Almond and Mediterranean Buckthorn.
Common Kestrels have been frequently spotted soaring overhead, which means Foresta is a good habitat for wintering, while Sardinian Warblers, Blackcaps, and Song Thrushes continue to fill the air with their calls. Early migratory movement has also been noted, with the first swallows and House Martins passing through. Meadow Pipits and Chiffchaffs remain present, and the ever-iconic Blue Rock Thrush can still be seen perched on the cliffs.
Works
This month, our team focused on regular cleanup efforts to keep the reserve well-maintained. Pruning was carried out along the walking paths to ensure easy access for visitors. A major focus was the removal of invasive species, particularly Acacia saligna (Blue-leaved Acacia). These highly invasive trees are planned to be eradicated from Malta by local authorities, as they pose a threat to native biodiversity. Their planting is now prohibited, making their removal a vital step in protecting the island’s natural habitats.
Objection to Overdevelopment in Naxxar Quarry (PA/00064/25)
BirdLife Malta strongly opposed planning application PA/00064/25, which seeks to convert a quarry in Naxxar into a commercial and residential care complex with extensive parking and public spaces. The site falls within a Strategic Open Gap (SOG), where urban development is strictly prohibited under policy CG25 of the local plan. The aim of this policy is to prevent urban sprawl, safeguard open landscapes, and maintain ecological and recreational value for the community.
The proposed project threatens to eliminate the last remaining unbuilt stretch of land in the area. Additionally, the inclusion of 665 parking spaces raises concerns over increased traffic congestion. Local residents are already burdened by inadequate traffic infrastructure, which has not been properly planned despite the establishment of several commercial entities in the vicinity. As a result, the road infrastructure of the area experiences persistent traffic congestion, noise pollution, and deteriorating air quality, severely impacting the overall quality of life in the area.
Rather than allowing further urban expansion, BirdLife Malta calls for a sustainable alternative. The site should be rehabilitated through ecological restoration and afforestation, transforming it into a green space that enhances biodiversity, supports wildlife, and provides much-needed recreational areas for the community.
Read our full objection here.
Three rare gulls make an appearance at Salina nature Reserve
February is one of the best months to observe gulls at the Salina Nature Reserve. This year among the hundreds of gulls present bird watchers were rewarded with the presence of three species of gulls which are not often observed in Malta. These were the Mew Gull, formerly know as Common Gull, (Lanus Canus) know in Maltese as Gawwija Sekonda; a Little Gull (Hydrocoloeus minutus), Maltese name is Gawwija Żgħira; and a Black-legged Kittiwake, in Maltese known as Gawwija tal-Ingilterra. All three species were 1st winter birds.
These three gulls are all considered as rare visitors to Malta since they occur irregularly and most often in single numbers during winter. The status of the Mew Gull in Malta is regarded as a rare but annual visitor throughout the winter months with most records of single birds between late November and January. The Little Gull is the smallest Gull in the world and quickly attracts attention due to its small size and agile flight; its status in Malta is regarded as a scarce and irregular annual visitor, seen mostly in single numbers during the winter months. The Kittiwake was considered as a vagrant in Malta in the past years, with only eight known records between 1843 and 1980. In recent years an increase in observations has been noted and it is now considered as a rare visitor with only two to five recorded annually.
Credits
Words: Marcella Giornetti, Manuel Mallia, Vera Tokmakova, Charles Coleiro, David Attard, Mario V.Gauci
Photographs: Vera Tokmakova, Charles Cloeiro, David Attard, Mario V.Gauci, Yusuf Gamal, Antonia Micallef
Editing: Khouloud Belhadj