Be the first to comment!Mist nets and illegal unregistered trap site dismantled in Gozo
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Rangers from the Malta Ranger Unit in Gozo reported a “mega site” in Gharb after having secured evidence of the items being used during late evening. The MRU said that the “offender was trying to avoid being detected.”
The MRU said evidence secure included:
“At least 3 sets of illegal mist nets left during the night (which can only be used by registered bird ringers). Such nets could catch even the smallest of birds during the early hours and have a very negative impact on the biodiversity.
“Illegal electronic caller for Fieldfare (illegal to trap) used during night.
“Unregistered trapping site in connection to the mist nets. The active site had unattended ground clap nets.”
This “mega site” was treated by Rangers as “an imminent danger to wildlife,” the MRU said. The Rangers called for “immediate assistance of the Gozo Police. It’s not uncommon for the Authorities to not recognise night time Environmental crimes as an emergency.”
The MRU said that its Rangers are asked many times “why such cases can’t wait until the morning, but stand their grounds on such matters.”
The Rangers confirmed that the Victoria Police dismantled the site. “We have requested a written confirmation of the amount of items that were found, to make sure that nothing was left on site during the dark hour operation,” the MRU said.
“Not having an Environmental Protection Unit Police in Gozo, leaves untrained District Police to deal with such crimes. It’s not fair on nature, nor on the Officers,” stated the MRU.
The MRU reiterated its call to Minister Miriam Dalli Clint Camilleri. “It’s high time for the Environment and crimes against it, to be treated as an emergency. Eco-Gozo A Better Gozo?”
“Why should protected fauna be left entangled in a net over night? Why should environmental criminals feel such impunity that they leave their equipment out during the night,” stated the Malta Ranger Unit.
Our Rangers will continue to report Environmental Crimes during nighttime. Because nature deserves protection also during the dark hours.
Photo: MRU
