The Malta Ranger Unit said that while they were out on routine patrol on the coast near Ghasri in Gozo, a person was seen setting up a trapping site and started to trap.

The MRU said that its Rangers documented the individual well enough for him to be identified, although he tried his best to hide behind a balaclava.

Gozo Police were alerted immediately and were swiftly on site. The MRU said that one set of clap nets as well as five cages with different types of finches were confiscated.

The MRU noted that many of the birds, that “were wild caught without rings, were full of blood from trying to get out of the tiny cages.”

“Wild caught birds, not bred in captivity, get easily stressed out in the small cages hence are prone to injuries.” the MRU said.

The MRU highlighted the fact that the bird migration is not fully underway yet and the trapping season closed a month ago with potential reopening not until late autumn.

The Malta Ranger Unit reminded Environment Minister Miriam Dalli and Minister Clint Camilleri, that Gozo in 2026, is without any Environment Police, and urged them to take action.

Photos: MRU

Permalink: Gozo: MRU spot illegal bird trapping site, Police seize birds, cages and nets