A visit to the nature reserves at Pwales and Ghadira will reveal that beauty is indeed not only in the eyes of the beholder.
Both the Simar and Ghadira nature reserves are habitat for a variety of species of flora and fauna and accommodate a variety of migratory birds throughout the year. A few breeding pairs are recorded on an annual basis, indicating that Malta can offer a breeding ground for some species.
The nature reserves also offer hospitality to other marine and terrestrial species, many of which are of national and international importance due to their vulnerability. The killifish (Aphanius fasciatus) is one particular example. This killifish is also a source of food to many of the visiting birds, including the colourful kingfisher.
The environment within these sites is constantly monitored and important parameters are recorded, including the salinity levels of the pools, rainfall and water level fluctuations.
The Simar and Ghadira nature reserves are managed by BirdLife Malta, in line with an agreement between the Ministry for Rural Affairs and the Environment, the Malta Environment and Planning Authority and the environmental NGO. Officials from the ministry's environment policy and initiatives directorate recently visited the reserves to identify areas where further cooperation between the government and the NGO could be achieved. This included improving public education and awareness of the wildlife preserved there.
The Simar and Ghadira nature reserves are open for school visits every day and for the public on weekends. Trained personnel lead the public through a nature trail, along which most species of flora are labelled to enhance the educational benefit. Visitors can also enjoy bird-watching from one of the hides. A guide highlights the English, Maltese and scientific name of the species observed from these hides and briefs visitors on the birds' nesting and feeding habits, their visiting period and the duration of their stay.
During the week, visits can be organised for schoolchildren by appointment. During the weekend, opening hours at Ghadira are on Saturday and Sunday between 10.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. and at Simar on Sunday from 12.30 to 4.30 p.m.