BirdLife Malta strongly condemns the outcome of yesterday’s Ornis Committee meeting, where the majority once again chose to align with political pressure rather than base decisions on scientific evidence and conservation needs.
During the meeting, BirdLife Malta presented its latest findings following the publication of the new EU Article 12 reporting earlier this year. This data clearly confirms a continued downward trend in the population of the Turtle-dove, reinforcing long-standing concerns raised by BirdLife Malta, particularly since the moratorium on hunting this species was lifted.
Despite the significance of this new data, the Wild Birds Regulation Unit (WBRU) chose to dismiss it on the basis that it still requires vetting at EU level. BirdLife Malta strongly rebutted this argument, emphasising that the data is nonetheless highly indicative and, in line with the precautionary principle, should have led to a decision not to open a spring hunting season for Turtle-dove this year.
The proposal to reinstate a moratorium on spring hunting of Turtle-dove was rejected, with four votes against, one in favour (BirdLife Malta), and the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) abstaining.
Commenting on this outcome, BirdLife Malta CEO Mark Sultana said: “The abstention by ERA once again shows the weak spine of the authority in safeguarding our natural resources when faced with political will to do otherwise. BirdLife Malta cannot understand how a scientist would not uphold the precautionary principle; while ERA did not agree with opening a season, it still chose to remain on the fence – a position that reflects cowardice at a time when courage to protect nature is so urgently needed. Following this decision, Malta will very soon look back and realise the grave mistake and illegality it is committing by allowing Turtle-doves to be shot in spring. The spring hunting season has an expiry date, and that time is now.”
The committee also approved the opening of a spring hunting season for Turtle-dove and Quail as proposed by FKNK, with BirdLife Malta casting the sole vote in opposition.
BirdLife Malta further notes with concern that key reports and documentation were circulated to committee members only a few hours before the meeting commenced, raising serious questions about transparency, due process, and respect for informed decision-making.
This latest decision underscores a troubling pattern within the Ornis Committee, where political considerations continue to outweigh scientific evidence, to the detriment of Malta’s natural heritage.
BirdLife Malta reiterates its call for decisions concerning wildlife to be guided by science, transparency, and the precautionary principle, particularly when dealing with species in clear decline such as the Turtle-dove.
Read our press release in Maltese here.
