BirdLife Malta is organising an evening event in Gozo next month. Listening to the calling of Scopoli’s Shearwaters is the best nature spectacle of a Maltese summer and Dwejra, Gozo is a perfect spot for it. Being a Dark Sky Heritage Area, it is also one of the few places to enjoy a starry night sky from.

Dwejra Tower (Din L-Art Helwa) is co-hosting this event with BirdLife Malta and they are inviting the public to watch the sunset from the Dwejra tower roof and hear the special shearwater calls while looking up at the stars.

The evening will get underway with two engaging talks:

Professor Joseph Caruana will speak about astronomy and light pollution. BirdLife Malta’s LIFE Tetide project team will give a presentation on seabirds on Gozo, with a focus on the research and monitoring actions on the island.

After the talks, it will be time to enjoy sunset on the tower roof and head out along the cliffs “to try our luck at hearing shearwaters,” said BLM.

At this time of year, Scopoli’s Shearwaters are in full swing in their breeding season and call at night to communicate with their partners or neighbours.

BirdLife Malta said that Professor Joseph Caruana will also set up a telescope for astronomy viewing, so fingers crossed for a clear cloud-free night.

Anyone wishing to participate in this event are advised by the BLM that it is essential to take sturdy footwear and drinking water. It is also optional to have a torch with red light and binoculars for pre-sunset birdwatching.

BirdLife Malta said that it will provide torches with red light for anybody who does not have one. Sturdy footwear and the ability to walk on rough terrain at night is essential to reach the tower.

This special evening event is taking place on Tuesday, the 24th of June, starting at 7.30pm.

The number of participants is limited to 15 persons, so booking is required. Please note that a separate form must be filled in for each participant. Please register here to reserve your spot.

As the number of participants is limited, please let the organisers know if anyone is unable to attend after registering, so they can offer the spot to someone on the waiting list.

Participation is against a €5 donation to Din l-Art Helwa for hosting the event at the tower. It can be paid in cash on the day or from the button by clicking here.

For queries please email BirdLife Malta on events@birdlifemalta.org

BirdLife Malta said that that they will “go to the cliffs and set up an astronomy telescope only if the weather conditions are favourable. Although can stay longer on the tower roof as an alternative. Shearwater-calling behaviour is variable, and we cannot guarantee that we will hear them. We encourage participants to stay till 10pm to increase the chances.”

For updates, please check out the Facebook event

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