Two shot, protected birds of prey, have been received by BirdLife Malta in less than a week. It said that a juvenile Black Kite was found yesterday by an Italian resident while swimming in the area of Xrobb l-Ghagin limits of Marsaskala.

The NGO in a statement today, said that the bird had been washed ashore after falling to sea in the area. Sightings of a Black Kite were reported over Birzebbuga on the 2nd of August, with this young bird attempting to use Malta to rest and refuel before continuing its journey south to Africa. “Its passage was however short-lived.”

Having been taken to the vet, BirdLife said that an X-ray revealed the bird “has been illegally shot at, causing a fracture in its wing, and resulting in it crashing into the sea.”

“Hunting this species is illegal and punishable by law with a minimum fine for up to €5,000. With hunting only allowed for rabbits at this time, BirdLife Malta commented that, “hunters are using this season as a blanket to target other species, in this case a Black Kite on its first ever journey south to Africa.”

Luckily the injuries sustained by this bird can be healed,, the NGO said, and the Black Kite will undergo rehabilitation at BirdLife Malta.

It added that “other species commonly targeted illegally during this period include waders..Another protected bird of prey – a Honey Buzzard – with no less than ten pellets lodged in its body, was recovered on Monday from Birguma limits of Naxxar, BirdLife said.

It was spotted running around on Monday evening by a member of the public walking their dog. A video can be viewed here.

An X-ray taken by the vet revealed 10 lead pellets lodged inside the bird’s body which would have made its recovery impossible, BirdLife said.

BirdLife Malta concluded by saying that any illegal hunting incidents and injured birds found should be reported to authorities and to BirdLife on 2134 7646 or 7925 5697.

Photographs by BirdLife Malta

Permalink: BirdLife receives 2 shot protected birds of prey in under a week