As the summer kicks in, boat operators and nature conservationists step up efforts to implement a Notice to Mariners (NTM) issued on the 6th January which is aimed at protecting Malta’s largest colony of breeding Yelkouan Shearwaters.

The NTM No. 4 of 2009 sets a buffer zone for potentially disruptive boat based activities that may occur two hours before sunset and two hours after sunrise. Disruptive activities at night including loud music, fireworks and excessive lights are prohibited within approximately 1.1 nautical mile distance off Rdum tal-Madonna, site of the ongoing LIFE Yelkoaun Shearwater project, during the breeding season ending 30th July.

"Throughout the breeding season, which extends from February till the end of July, our researchers working at the cliffs at night have found that the majority of boat operators are respecting the Notice to Mariners. However, several infringements have also been recorded by a few key operators." said Nicholas Barbara, LIFE Yelkouan Shearwater Project Manager.

The AFM have been patrolling the area since the Notice to Mariners came into force, and have intercepted several boats operating in violation of the legally binding Notice. The last incident happened on the 8th of July when a boat operator was intercepted playing loud music and with bright lights in the buffer zone, and was cautioned by the AFM.

Malta holds an estimated 10% of the world population of Yelkouan Shearwaters. The birds return to Malta to breed in February and remain at the colony until the end of July. During this period, the birds are particularly susceptible to disturbance and may even abandon the nest site if the disturbance is persistent or extreme. This has already been recorded in areas such as Hal Far, where sections of the shearwater breeding colonies were abandoned due to increased light and noise pollution.

The Malta Maritime Authority reminded boat operators to abide by conditions as set in Notice to Mariners No.4 of 2009 regarding the Restricted Area between "Ponta ta’ l-Ahrax" and "Dahlet ix-Xilep".

The EU LIFE Yelkouan Shearwater project is a partnership of four governmental bodies including Malta Maritime Authority and three conservation NGOs. The project is 50% sponsored by the EU Life Unit with additional support from MEPA and HSBC Cares for the Environment Fund.

Photo – The Yelkouan Shearwater is a long lived seabird which can dive up to 30 metres deep and filter excess salt out of its system through special glands on its beak. Photo by Frank Dhermain.

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