The Malta Ranger Unit on night shift have been kept busy during December with the peaking migration of Golden Plover. The MRU said that some trappers “tried their luck at night although knowing it is forbidden by law at that time.”

The MRU stated that “while the majority of people were asleep, the trappers used loud electronic bird callers to lure the birds and illegally catch them. These devices are illegal since it’s deemed a highly unsustainable way of trapping, far from the conservation ethos.”

“During December nights, thanks to reports done by the MRU Rangers, over 15 sets of nets and several callers have been confiscated, as well as 3 poachers caught red handed by the Police,” it said.

The Malta Ranger Unit explained that these reports are spread over 6 councils, from the south to the north of the country, both in Gozo and Malta.

Legal actions are to be expected, with the trappers risking a high fine and suspension of their license, the Rangers said.

The trapping season for Golden Plover is open until the 10th of January, unless the bag limit of 700 birds is reached before. Trapping for Song Thrush closes today, Tuesday, the 31st of December, the quota for that is 5,000 birds.

The Malta Ranger Unit expressed its thanks to the Public for all the reports of bird callers throughout this season. “Your reports help us work more efficiently and make sure that the environmental criminals are caught by the Authorities.”

Photo: Malta Ranger Unit

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