Today marks the end of the “research period” on seven species of songbirds. Kaccaturi San Ubertu ((KSU) in a statement, has thanked the government “for realising and using the potential and contribution of Maltese trappers on ornithology where through their knowledge and experience have contributed to the study of the migratory songbirds in our country.”
KSU also thanked all the trappers who, they said, “have shown their full commitment to the success of this study.”
“Despite a very poor passage across the island we know from reports that birds with rings were still found, and this bodes well for the future,” said KSU. “We expect this very useful information to be published.”
“It is no less obscene that BirdLife Malta, the entity that has failed to provide adequate information on these birds, has been instrumental in the European Commission taking action against this much-needed study,” stated KSU.
It went on to say that, “we are certain that this deception will be refuted by the Maltese government with strong arguments that reveal the deception of BirdLife Malta.”
KSU also reiterated the need for Maltese trappers to be given a “Bird Ringers” license so that their contribution in the future also involves the fitting of rings on birds that are caught.
It pointed out that under the existing law these licenses can only be recommended by Birdlife Malta, the same entity that opposes trapping and hunting.
KSU concluded by thanking Prime Minister Robert Abela and Ministers Clint Camilleri and Aaron Farrugia as well as Alex Agius Saliba and fellow European Parliamentarians who supported this initiative.
Photo by KSU