The cost of building a visitors' centre at the Simar nature reserve would be high because of the clay foundations, BirdLife Malta said.

BirdLife Malta is raising funds for the centre by organising two days of Latin Jazz at the opera house ruins in Valletta tomorrow and on Saturday.

Priority is being given to the reception centre because it is the main reason why Simar's gates are closed for most of the year, BirdLife Malta said. The money raised will also go towards improving the habitat, tree planting, developing the bird-watching hides with more information panels and much more.

Simar nature reserve covers around 5 hectares and is mostly covered in reeds, offering a habitat for shy birds like ducks, coots and rails. The bed at is-Simar is composed of blue clay, making it extremely fertile.

Once given the right habitat and protection, birds do make a permanent home, as had been witnessed in new breeding species to the Maltese islands, such as the little bittern and reed warbler, it said.

It is also important to draw attention to the two types of fish present: the Killifish and the Grey Mullet (a species which can grow as much as 60cms). Frogs are present in small numbers in some fresh water pools created by wardens to attract more birds. The water is brackish - it verges on fresh water in winter but tends to get salty in the summer months when evaporation is at its highest.

Simar Nature Reserve opened for school visits during the last scholastic year, catering specifically for secondary students. A total of 1,400 students from 25 institutions enjoyed a visit to the reserve.

Tickets for the Latin Jazz are Lm3.75 and are available from Exotique outlets or call on tel. 79734269. A limited number are also available at the door.

For more information on the nature reserve, visit the BirdLife Malta website http://www.birdlifemalta.org