BirdLife Malta was alerted today by its partners abroad that GPS-tracked White Storks were making their way towards the Maltese Islands, offering a rare opportunity to follow part of their migration in real time.

The organisation said that some of the White Storks in this flock are fitted with tracking devices as part of an international research effort by German ornithologists to better understand the species’ movements and migration strategies.

Their journey has been particularly interesting because, rather than following the more westerly route towards Africa via the Strait of Gibraltar, the birds travelled along the Central-Eastern Mediterranean flyway, passing through Italy and Sicily before continuing southwards towards Malta, BirdLife Malta said.

The tracked storks reached Malta at around 1.30pm today accompanied by another flock of White Storks, bringing the total number of storks to around 67.

The arrival provides a spectacular opportunity to witness one of Europe’s most recognisable migratory birds over the Maltese Islands. The organisation noted that it is also of particular scientific interest, with tracking data providing researchers with valuable information about the movements of the wider flock and the routes being used during migration.BirdLife Malta members at Buskett also observed a number of rare eagles, some of which were fitted with satellite tags BirdLife Malta encouraged the public to keep an eye on the skies and enjoy this exceptional migration spectacle from a respectful distance, without disturbing the birds should they descend to rest or roost.

BirdLife Malta stressed that ”at the same time, their presence once again highlights Malta’s responsibility to provide migrating birds with a safe passage. White Storks and birds of prey are highly protected species, and BirdLife Malta urges everyone, particularly members of the hunting community, to ensure that these birds are left completely undisturbed.”

”We hope that all the storks are allowed to continue their extraordinary journey safely. Protecting them means allowing the public to enjoy this remarkable natural event, supporting the international scientific work being carried out on their migration and, above all, giving the birds the safe passage they need,” the organisation said.

BirdLife Malta concluded by saying that ”anyone witnessing any illegalities involving these birds, or any other protected species, is urged to report the incident immediately to BirdLife Malta on 79255697 and to the Police on 119. Where possible, members of the public should take note of the exact location and any other relevant details that could assist in reporting the incident.”

Photos by Nicholas Galea: Flock of White Storks and two Lesser Spotted Eagles and a Booted Eagle

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