Ornis says no to finch trapping

Finch trapping and the shooting of ducks from sea craft in spring will probably not be permitted following a decision taken during an Ornis Committee meeting yesterday.

The decision has incensed the hunters' federation, which had proposed trapping for seven songbird species for a month starting from March and hunting at sea for ducks and geese for 15 days between the first and second moons of March.

With the exception of the hunters' representatives, all members of the Ornis Committee objected to the hunters' demands.

The hunters walked out of the meeting and it is now up to the Environment Minister to sanction the committee's decision.

European Commission sources told The Times earlier this week that the outcome of EU accession negotiations with Malta made it clear that finch trapping can take place only in autumn as there was no justification for the government to open the season in spring as well.

Contacted shortly after the meeting, FKNK secretary Lino Farrugia said the hunters' council met last night to discuss a plan of action.

Turtle dove and quail trappers will be able to practise their pastime between March 26 and May 20.