The Malta Ranger Unit said that it has received information that the Government’s veterinarian has confirmed that the Little Egrets found in Burmarrad/Naxxar, as well as the Scops Owl found in Ahrax recently, “were both shot illegally.”

The MRU noted that, “he scarce Rock Thrush had no pellets showing on the x-ray, hence it can’t be confirmed, nor denied, that it was shot.”

Unfortunately these birds’ migratory journey across Malta was cut short, said the MRU

We wish to remind the Minister Clint Camilleri and Miriam Dalli that this is the result of the lack of political will to strengthen our country’s Environmental Protection Unit Police. In specific the fact that Gozo has ZERO such Officers throughout the year!

“The Maltese Environmental Protection Unit Police are doing their absolute best, working with minimum resources. They handle a large amount of cases, many times not coping with the incoming reports. It’s not fair on them, nor the wildlife,” stated the MRU.

The organisation insisted that “environmental criminals have been enjoying impunity for way too long. When will the decision-makers act? How many more protected birds will be illegally taken, and how much more damage will be done to the habitats until action is taken?”

It added that 30% of Malta’s land area has been declared Natura 2000. “European Commission – this designation means nothing in Malta if there is no protection – Green washing at its best.”

The Malta Ranger Unit concluded by saying that it wants to put more Ranger boots on the ground and monitor more areas in Malta to prevent wildlife from being harmed.

Photos: MRU

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