Hunting and Trapping in the Maltese Islands

Between Tradition and Conservation

Introduction

Hunting and trapping in the Maltese Islands remain some of the most polarizing environmental and cultural topics in the country. These activities, deeply embedded in rural traditions and folklore, have over the years transformed into a complex issue intertwining ecological sustainability, legal obligations, political influence, and identity. Situated along one of the most important avian migratory routes in the Mediterranean, Malta plays a disproportionate role in the conservation of bird species relative to its size. Yet, it is also home to one of the highest densities of hunters per square kilometer in Europe.

This essay explores the multi-dimensional nature of hunting and trapping in Malta, tracing their historical roots, assessing their environmental and legal implications, understanding the societal perspectives, and analyzing the future of these practices within the broader scope of European environmental policy and global biodiversity conservation.

Historical and Cultural Background

The practice of hunting in Malta dates back to pre-modern times, when it served as a source of food and recreation for the island's inhabitants. In the absence of extensive forests or large terrestrial fauna, the Maltese population turned primarily to birds as game. The strategic location of the islands, bridging Europe and Africa, meant that Malta naturally became a key resting point for migratory birds crossing the Mediterranean Sea.

As a result, the archipelago developed a distinctive hunting and trapping culture. Unique traditional techniques such as clap-net trapping (locally called nassaba) and the use of bird decoys and calls became widespread. In rural areas, the construction of hunting hides (gabbani) and private trapping sites has been part of the landscape for generations. These practices were passed down through families and became symbols of local pride and heritage.

In addition to subsistence and tradition, the social aspect of hunting became increasingly significant in the 20th century. For many, it provided a sense of community, camaraderie, and a deep connection to the countryside. The seasonal rhythms of bird migration marked important periods in the lives of rural hunters and trappers, fostering a shared identity tied closely to nature—albeit from a utilitarian perspective.

Legal Framework and EU Accession

Malta's accession to the European Union in 2004 brought hunting and trapping under a far more stringent legal spotlight. As part of the accession agreements, Malta was required to conform to the EU Birds Directive (Directive 2009/147/EC), which mandates the protection of all wild birds and prohibits activities that could jeopardize their conservation status, including hunting during spring migration and the trapping of certain species.

However, Malta negotiated several derogations (exemptions), particularly concerning the spring hunting of quail (Coturnix coturnix) and turtle dove (Streptopelia turtur), and the trapping of seven species of finches, claiming these as "traditional cultural practices." These derogations quickly became contentious, drawing criticism from conservation organizations and leading to multiple legal challenges.

One of the most significant legal milestones came in 2018, when the European Court of Justice ruled that Malta had breached EU law by allowing the trapping of finches under the guise of traditional practices. The court determined that such practices were not justifiable given the availability of alternative means for studying or preserving cultural knowledge, and that they posed a direct threat to declining bird populations.

Despite this ruling, Malta has periodically reinstated trapping seasons, often citing improved regulatory measures or reinterpreted legal advice. Such decisions have led to continued friction with the European Commission, frequent infringement proceedings, and a tarnished environmental reputation on the EU stage.

Ecological and Biodiversity Impact

The ecological implications of hunting and trapping in Malta are substantial and far-reaching. With over 390 recorded bird species, the Maltese Islands represent a critical corridor for migratory birds journeying between Europe and sub-Saharan Africa. Many of these species arrive exhausted after crossing the Mediterranean, making them particularly vulnerable to hunting.

The targeted species during legal hunting seasons include turtle dove, quail, and a few others. However, numerous protected and endangered species—such as the marsh harrier, honey buzzard, osprey, hoopoe, and even flamingos—are regularly reported to be shot or trapped illegally. BirdLife Malta and international NGOs like CABS (Committee Against Bird Slaughter) have documented hundreds of cases of illegal killing each year, some involving rare or globally threatened species.

The turtle dove, in particular, has become emblematic of the conflict. Once abundant, its populations have plummeted across Europe by over 90% since the 1980s, prompting the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to classify it as "Vulnerable." Conservationists argue that any continued hunting of turtle doves—especially during spring migration when birds are returning to breed—is incompatible with sustainable wildlife management.

Additionally, trapping methods such as limesticks, nets, and cage traps not only target specific species but also indiscriminately catch non-target birds, including protected ones. These methods are widely regarded as inhumane and ecologically damaging.

Social Dynamics and Public Opinion

Public opinion in Malta is deeply divided on this issue. According to various national polls and the 2015 Spring Hunting Referendum, there is no clear consensus. That referendum, held after immense public pressure, narrowly upheld the legality of spring hunting for quail and turtle dove, with approximately 50.4% voting in favor. The closeness of the result underscored how contentious and emotionally charged the issue has become.

On one side are organizations such as BirdLife Malta, Nature Trust, and environmental youth groups that advocate for full compliance with EU conservation laws, greater enforcement against illegal hunting, and a cultural shift toward appreciating birds for their ecological value rather than as trophies.

On the other side stand hunting federations such as the FKNK (Federazzjoni Kaċċaturi Nassaba Konservazzjonisti) and KSU (Kaċċaturi San Ubertu), which argue that hunting is a legal and regulated tradition that contributes to the local economy, promotes rural life, and fosters a connection to nature. These groups often emphasize their role in voluntary clean-ups, afforestation efforts, and the self-regulation of members.

However, critics point out that the political influence of the hunting lobby often results in lax enforcement, selective prosecution, and limited political will to implement reforms. Successive Maltese governments, both Labour and Nationalist, have been accused of using hunting as a political bargaining chip during elections, particularly in rural districts where hunters constitute a significant voting bloc.

Enforcement, Monitoring, and Governance Challenges

Enforcing hunting laws in Malta presents significant logistical and political challenges. Despite the establishment of the Wild Birds Regulation Unit (WBRU) and an increase in administrative controls, reports of rampant non-compliance and limited prosecutions continue. Field monitoring is heavily reliant on NGOs, foreign volunteers, and private citizens, rather than comprehensive government-led enforcement.

Moreover, Malta's small geographic size means that illegal hunting can occur virtually anywhere, from the countryside to suburban areas. Witnesses often face intimidation or harassment, and there have been incidents of violence against activists and journalists. Surveillance measures such as the use of drones and hidden cameras have helped document infractions, but legal convictions remain rare.

The Way Forward: Toward Sustainable Coexistence

The future of hunting and trapping in Malta lies at the intersection of cultural preservation, legal compliance, and ecological responsibility. Several paths forward could balance these often conflicting priorities:

• Stronger Enforcement: Malta must strengthen the independence and capacity of its environmental enforcement agencies. Consistent prosecution of offenders and clear consequences for law-breaking would deter illegal practices and rebuild public trust.
  
• Education and Cultural Shifts: Promoting birdwatching, nature appreciation, and environmental education—especially among the youth—can help transform cultural attitudes and replace extractive traditions with conservation-minded alternatives.
  
• Incentivizing Eco-tourism: Malta’s unique location and biodiversity offer immense potential for sustainable tourism. Developing birdwatching trails, hosting international migration festivals, and involving former hunters as nature guides can create economic opportunities that reward protection rather than exploitation.
  
• Constructive Dialogue: Bridging the gap between hunters and conservationists is essential. Collaborative initiatives, transparent policymaking, and community engagement can help reduce polarization and foster a more inclusive approach to environmental governance.
  

Future Outlook

• Conservation groups call for a full ban on spring hunting and trapping.
  
• Shift toward eco-tourism and birdwatching is encouraged.
  
• Sustainable coexistence requires stronger law enforcement, education, and depoliticized environmental policy.

Please note

NatureMalta.com is not an advocate for hunting and trapping. The organization is totally against these practices and actively supports bird conservation and the protection of wildlife in the Maltese Islands.