Updated: Protected Hungarian spoonbill shot - BirdLife appeals for information
Hunters condemn shooting
The spoonbill five hours before it was shot. Photo Ray Galea, BirdLife
(Adds St Hubert Hunters' statement) BirdLife is appealing for information on the shooting of a protected Hungarian Spoonbill in the Salina Bird Sanctuary yesterday afternoon.
It said in a statement that the bird was shot at around 3.50 p.m. following which two men in a blue car drove along the main road, stopping close to the shot bird.
One of the men got out of the car, recovered the shot Spoonbill, and got back into the car, which then drove off. The number plates, covered by cloth, could not be read.
The Spoonbill had been ringed with a unique combination of six coloured rings as a chick in Fejer, Hungary on the June 13, 2009. This was part of a Europe-wide study on Spoonbills by a group of specialist ringing researchers.
It arrived in Malta earlier this week and stayed in the Salina Bird Sanctuary Area until it was shot yesterday.
This is the second time in just nine months a protected bird ringed as a chick as part of a conservation project abroad was shot down in the Salina Bird Sanctuary, BirdLife said.
In October 2010, a German ringed Osprey was recovered by BirdLife Malta after being shot in the sanctuary.
Although the bird was sent to a rehabilitation centre in Germany it could not overcome its severe shotgun injuries.
BirdLife said that yesterday's shooting consists of a whole set of contraventions - spoonbills are protected birds under national and EU law, it is currently closed season, no hunting may take place in bird sanctuaries, and no shooting may take place within 50 metres of a main road.
The Hungarian spoonbill was shot down and recovered within metres of the very busy coast road in broad daylight.
BirdLife appealed for anyone with information to contact the police or the organisation.
The police can be reached on 119, 2122 1111, BirdLife on 2134 7646.
HUNTERS CONDEMN SHOOTING
St Hubert Hunters unreservedly condemned the shooting but took a sarcastic dig at BirdLife saying that, unfortunately, though many relevant details of the perpetrators were known to the organisation, their prowess at close up photography did not serve to identify the perpetrators.
The hunters urged anyone who might have witnessed the incident to forward any relevant details to the police.
They hoped that apart from providing excellent pictures of birds and sensational news BirdLife might also consider providing incriminating proof of the law breakers they witnessed.
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Ms Sylvana Zarb Darmanin
Jul 4th 2011, 11:00
Chris Xuereb, what a ridiculous and laughable comment I must say!! Update yourself, Sir - dogs are not game! "not that we don't already know the capabilities of those you share common interests with." - You definitely do not!! The many Maltese law-abiding hunters adore their dogs. I just wish that certain antis/extremists enjoy the many good qualities and education held by certain hunters!!!
Ms Sylvana Zarb Darmanin
Jul 3rd 2011, 14:18
Peter Agius, my comments serve to justify a LEGAL and traditional pastime! The many Maltese law-abiding hunters have a right to their pastime whether you like it or not. And yes, Sir, they may enjoy their Spring, Autumn and Winter Season for game, and their Summer season for rabbit. Meanwhile, you prefer others to do the butchering for you! Or maybe, you are under the impression that the meat, chicken, rabbit and fish you eat grow on a supermarket shelf!!!
John Zammit Spiteri, I believe you mis-used the word "shameless"??!! I use my energy to defend a LEGAL pastime which you dream of abolishing! Meanwhile, can you substantiate your claim that "the majority of the Maltese nation is crying out to stop this egoistic lust!"?? In actual fact, many people I know are not bothered at all with hunting. It is only a few extremists who try to give a different and imaginary picture on this blog. Finally, keep on dreaming of "the day when hunting is banned for good". Hunting is a legal pastime, practised the world over and it is here to stay. Also, I urge you to keep on hoping that you won't see my "name here ever again". I am here to stay and definitely do not need your permission to do so. Sweet dreams, Sir!!!
Mr Chris Xuereb
Jul 3rd 2011, 19:24
would you support & write on behalf of those that kill dogs if it was a legal traditional pass time and a so called right? not that we don't already know the capabilities of those you share common interests with.
just a yes or a no pls
John Zammit-Spiteri
Jul 3rd 2011, 08:40
@ms s zarb darmanin
I cant believe that somone like you can waste so much energy to try to prove something which is completely and utterly shameless. Doesnt it occur to you that the majority of the Maltese nation is crying out to stop this egoistic lust! Cant you see that you are yourself damaging our reputation that we love nature , and wishes it to thrive in a normal way, without monsters who are organising themselves in a very uncaring inhuman way? I wait for the day when hunting is banned for good and I hope I wont see your name here ever again.
Ms Sylvana Zarb Darmanin
Jul 2nd 2011, 16:49
Peter Agius, is it so difficult for you to present some sensible arguments?!! " Bla Bla Bla......as usual." are the persistent comments coming from the antis calling for a ban on hunting. Obviously, this is only a dream as hunting is here to stay. "Bla Bla Bla.....as usual" are the untruths being fed by BLM and Co to the gullible few. Remember the famous black t-shirts depicting that spring hunting is illegal, YET our hunters are once again LEGALLY enjoying their Spring Hunting Season?! If you persist in describing my comments as "Bla Bla Bla.....as usual", well my comments have served to expose the antis' many untruths, as well as contributing towards the Maltese hunters getting what is rightfully theirs, obviously to your obsolute disappointment!
Frans Abela, as much as you have a right to "object to hunting the world over and not just Malta", this does not make an iota of difference. I kindly ask you to specify as to where I insulted "people from other countries". I leave insults to the many antis who try to win an argument by being insultive. Meanwhile, are you aware that the Maltese hunters shoot on game, i.e. the birds caught are consumed similar to rabbit, fish, chicken, etc. Well, it appears that you prefer to let others do the butchering for you! Finally, as you correctly wrote, you "reluctantly have to accept" that the Maltese hunters may enjoy their traditional pastime within the parameters of the law, whether you like it or not!!
K Perry, do you actually consider your banal comment as being a sensible argument?! BTW, you conveniently refrained from justifying your insults towards others!!
Mr Peter Agius
Jul 3rd 2011, 08:35
Your comments serve only to try and justify the unjustifiable...that is the wanton killing of birds, this happening in Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall.
Mr Alex Ellul
Jul 1st 2011, 23:42
REFERENDUM
Ms Sylvana Zarb Darmanin
Jul 1st 2011, 19:47
If what is being reported is true, then I fully condemn such illegality. I would have expected BLM to provide evidence to substantiate such claim. Hopefully, they have done so to the Police.
Franco Farrugia, do you reason the same way you did below while enjoying a steak, chicken, rabbit or fish?! I wonder!
John Vella and all those asking for a ban, stop nagging. Are you aware that hunting is practised worldwide?!
Claire cp, WOW! how desperate you appear to be! The Maltese law-abiding hunters will continue to enjoy their traditional pastime in MALTA - their country, similar to other citizens worldwide. The ones that should be sent to a JUNGLE are the ones who are unable to reason in a mature and sensible manner!
Lynn Nobbs, can you specify which country you come from? Meanwhile, I suggest you research the illegalities taking place in YOUR country.
Chris Xuereb, since you are a Maltese citizen similar to the driver who killed a tourist, are you in the same 'keffa' as well?!
Chris Grillo, that is frantic! Just because you are fed up, fed up and fed up!, is not reason enough to deprive law-abiding hunters of their expensive possessions!
Mario Muscat and K Perry, being insultive only goes to show one's ignorance. It is sensible arguments which one expects here.
John Portelli, are we to believe that the millions of hunters worldwide are living in 650 AD? Grow up, Sir!
Mr Peter Agius
Jul 1st 2011, 23:15
Bla Bla Bla......as usual.
Fran Abela
Jul 2nd 2011, 10:19
There goes the champion of hunters ! I object to hunting the world over and not just Malta. You do not need to insult people from other countries because there is a majority worldwide that are against hunting. Yes, millions of hunters all over the world are still living in 650 AD if they insist on their so-called 'pastime' - some pastime that - killing live creatures. As to enjoying steak, rabbit and fish - this is a stupid argument because these animals are reared for food and every one is replaced by others. Birds are not - they are just being blown up in the skies and no replacement. Also the indiscriminate killing of birds - the world over - is to blame for the number of insects, etc. that use to be eaten by birds. It is useless trying to go on covering up for the hunters - they are hunters and stop there. I do not exclude the fact that there may be a few, I repeat, a few hunters who are sensible however, nothing will make me change my stance against hunting. I would eliminate it completely if I had the chance. Now I await Ms. Zarb Darmanin's reply or rather a diatribe against me ! Do not worry just stay calm and accept other people's opinions please like I reluctantly have to accept yours Ms. Zarb Darmanin.
K Perry
Jul 2nd 2011, 12:53
pot calling kettle black Madam.. look to your own laurels before rebuking others... the wizard of OZ used to make a lot of noise also but was merely a small man behind a large curtain.
Mr Chris Xuereb
Jul 1st 2011, 17:38
With so many doubts about every hunting crime I suggest St.Hubert change their name to St Thomas.
D Borg
Jul 1st 2011, 17:34
I recommend that SPEED CAMERAS are installed around the periphery of every RESERVE.
Cause it is only a Speed Camera that makes the installation of a CCTV worth the hassle it seems!
D Borg
Jul 1st 2011, 17:28
With such 'genuine maltese hunters' such as Joe Camilleri and St. Hubert Hunters........
who needs poachers?
Mr P Cardona
Jul 1st 2011, 17:13
This is one more despicable incident!
Going along BirdLife’s description of this shooting incidence, the person/s who done it acted in true Rambo fashion!
Running around in a blue car with number plates covered alone, is conspicuous enough to attract attention. Then shooting in broad daylight and having to drive a bit further to pick up the bird, before making the getaway. All this happened just by one heavily used main road!
Everybody and his dog would have expected a picture of the perpetrators and/or their car, alongside the shot bird! After all, it happened under BirdLife members’ watchful eyes; patiently recording the bird’s every move, hopefully with recording equipment.
charles tabone
Jul 1st 2011, 17:06
One good thing is to withdraw all licences and another is to confiscate all forms of licenced shotguns. Can't we for once enjoy the gifts of nature? Definitely there will be no answer from barbariansor their supporters. Hallukom mid-derogi.
Mr Mark Cutajar
Jul 1st 2011, 17:05
A genuine case of mistaking a common unedible Spoonbill in April for a captive bred edible Dove in June released as compensation for their sins but soon realized it wasn't a racing pigeon in January.
Fran Abela
Jul 1st 2011, 16:37
St. Hubert Hunters and all other hunters - if you really want us to believe that you are hunters of goodwill you would tell us that you will be doing your best to find out who did this otherwise you do not fool us at all.
Mr Joe Camilleri
Jul 1st 2011, 16:32
Of course the hunting organizations condemm this act. Firstly it is an illegal act by itself and secondly it gives the antis a chance to tarnish the genuine maltese hunter.
"unique combination of six coloured rings " Then it must be Lord Of The Rings. In LOTR, Gollum was a sacrificial victim, maybe this Hungarian Spoonbill is also one !!!!!
Usually the antis follow the bird in a bid to safegaurd it from poaching, how come they did not. For me it is hard to belive that a poacher would go this far knowing that this creature is being watched by persons handling powerful cameras.
Mr Victor Falzon
Jul 1st 2011, 18:54
@ Joe Camilleri
"Usually the antis follow the bird in a bid to safegaurd it from poaching, how come they did not."
Ah so it's BirdLife's fault now, isn't it. And you guys want to be taken seriously. Tsk.
Mr Alex Ellul
Jul 1st 2011, 16:27
Shame. To the hunters here claiming their virginity and righteousness, should you really want to help in catching these brainless version of a sub-species of a sub-human species, we all know that this bird will have to be stuffed’ by one of the ‘well known’ illegal taxidermists on the island. Word will be out sometime soon among the hunting fraternity as to the who/how/when/where rumours doing the rounds. One should report such knowledge to the police for investigating, hopefully catching the culprits.
One more thing: Control taxidermy, wether legal or illegal. This may make it difficult for hunters to find taxidermists who would be ready to stuff their illegally shot birds.
Mr John Portelli
Jul 1st 2011, 16:22
St Hubert: The Catholic Encyclopedia states:
As he was pursuing a magnificent stag, and in a clearing in the forest, the animal stopped and turned. Hubert was astounded at perceiving a crucifix suspended between its antlers, while he heard a voice from the figure of Christ say, "Hubert, unless you turn to the Lord, and lead a holy life, you shall quickly fall into the abyss of Hell!"
Following this incident he converted and gave up hunting! How about our hunters following this example! Think not, as they still think they are living in 650 AD the same time of St. Hubert!!
Mr Paul Barrett
Jul 1st 2011, 15:55
I saw this beautiful bird circling high above the Salina area on Tuesday at lunch time and really did hope that it would fly away before it was shot. Sadly it seems that this magnificent bird was, as I feared, doomed from the moment it failed to fly away.
K Perry
Jul 1st 2011, 15:53
your arrogance in such circumstances shows that the attitude of Maltese hunters being 'caring people ' releasing turtle doves was a complete sham. All you can do is gloat about your dislike of birblife organisation.
Your ignorance would have been better directed at posting a reward for information... that actually would have brought you more respect than the scorn poured on your clan for your snide remarks.
Didnt shout too much when it was dicovered that a hunter had shot star did you........despicable!
K Perry
Jul 1st 2011, 16:22
just to clarify, my comment was directed to Mr A formosa.
Mr Charles camilleri
Jul 1st 2011, 15:50
These savage persons will not stop until those caught will be given stiff sentences.
So far our courts have treated them too leniently.
Mario Muscat
Jul 1st 2011, 15:47
As I said many times before, the only way to stop illegal hunting in Malta is by collecting all the guns once the season is closed. These people are too ignorant and nothing will stop them from shooting birds over and over again. No guns, no shooting HOPEFULLY!!!!!!
K Perry
Jul 1st 2011, 16:24
a good idea Mr Muscat! such a simple solution...
Mr John J Borg
Jul 1st 2011, 16:30
.....does not make sense.....could have been shot by an illegal shotgun.
Mario Muscat
Jul 1st 2011, 17:04
@ Mr Borg
It makes a lot of sense. The less guns at hand, the less abuse. I'm sure you won't be happy if your gun is taken away from you for most of the time and don't tell me you're not a hunter yourself as no one will believe you after posting such a comment!
Mr Charles Gauci
Jul 1st 2011, 15:09
I just cannot understand how hunters like Mr. Anthony Formosa and Mr. M. Cardona simply cannot condemn this barbaric act (and all others like it) outright. They always have to say if this is true and so on and so forth. And this when one of their associations had already issued a press statement condemning this umpteenth atrocity perpetrated by irresponsible hunters.
Then they ask how come BLM members, with all their sophisticated cameras, etc did not identify the two brainless outlaws? I don't think one has to be a rocket scientist to comprehend that the incident was reported to BLM and not actually witnessed by the person who had photographed the Hungarian Spoonbill a few hours before.
Steve Zammit
Jul 1st 2011, 19:00
Well said Charles Gauci...agree with your comment fully
M. Cardona
Jul 2nd 2011, 09:31
Sur Charles Gauci ;
For Your Kind Attention here's my previous comment;
The circumstances beggar belief, however if this actually happened,IT IS CONDEMNED WITHOUT RESERVATIONS. If things happened as alleged, the individuals (possibly non-licensees) are the ones we need to weed from our midst, they're harming us all and nullifying all our genuine efforts.
Can BLM publish the picture of the blue car and make please for identification purposes? I'm sure someone would recognise the car even if the number plates were allegedly covered.
What I just cannot understand is how birdies like you manage to thwart what's black on white. Now go bark up some other tree Sur Gauci.
E. Azzopardi
Jul 1st 2011, 14:58
I did say that their credibility is ZERO two days ago. Now it is below ZERO. Just catch these morons and give a super good example not as usually done. Useless condemning these acts if they keep on repeating themselves.
It is happening all the time and the vast vast majority of the citizens are fed up. It is incredible that there are those who are in denial, it seems. Yes, it is a shame to hunters and the whole county. Isn't there someone capable of stopping this and all the other hunting nonsense once and for all?
Lawrence Attard
Jul 1st 2011, 14:53
Again our country is shamed by some barbarians with a shotgun thinking they can do whatever they want. Evolution has come a long way, but it also got stuck in some places.
Hopefully the police can maintain their recent track record and catch these culprits. Hunters themselves can be of great input here. This is a small country, if anyone could be in a position to know of hunters with a car as the one seen, it probably would be from the hunters' ranks. Surely hunters & poachers still buy supplies from the same shops, hang out at the same haunts, and know the same taxidermists?
One of the best areas of focus for investigations would probably be taxidermists, but Im sure the police know that already.
In a case like this though, I find it strangely out of place why the hunters association should be so bitter and sarcastic at the BLM members who saw the act. Let's not forget the culprits are people who own a shotgun and enjoy shooting at birds.
Mr C Mallia
Jul 1st 2011, 14:43
"St Hubert Hunters unreservedly condemned the shooting but took a sarcastic dig at BirdLife saying that, unfortunately, though many relevant details of the perpetrators were known to the organisation, their prowess at close up photography did not serve to identify the perpetrators."
This association first condemns the shooting and then takes a sarcastic dig to discredit Birdlife !!??? Either this association needs a PR lesson on "dishonest" statements or they are purposely pathetically petty. Goes to show they only can try to throw mud so that some will stick. The fact is a spoonbill is dead, shot by a hunter conveniently renamed as a poacher. At least they get the name "poacher" properly for PR purposes.
Matthew Dimech
Jul 1st 2011, 14:18
To the people below who said to ban hunting and shotguns ... if doing so do you think that these poachers will stop from what they are doing ... IT'S A BIG NO my dear friends! these are law breakers and what ever decision is taken they will still do the same!
Mr paul fava
Jul 1st 2011, 14:09
Please some thing must be done to catch these barbarians. I am not a security expert but are there not any watchmen over there?.......cannot cameras be installed?........this illegal shooting of protected species must stop once and for ever...... I am a hunter but I cannot but condemn this act without reservations and I am more than sure that the FKNK will do the same.
Mr M Mamo
Jul 1st 2011, 14:02
the sarcastic comment by St. Hubert shows the mentality they have yet they attempt at gaining people's sympathy by stupid announcements
Mr Chris Grillo
Jul 1st 2011, 13:55
Nirrakomanda li min ghandu senter irregistrat, jissakkar ghand il pulizija fil close season. Locker kull wiehed. U jingabru. Mat tajjeb, jehel il hazin.... dejjem hekk...
IMMA ISSA MA NISTGHUX IKTAR!!!!! MA NISTGHUX NIBQGHU QISU MA HU XEJN!!!!
ISSA XBAJNA!!! ISSA XBAJNA XBAJNA XBAJNA!!!!!!
Mr Johnny Xerri
Jul 2nd 2011, 12:46
Chris Grillo,
I will try patiently to reply...to the usual nonsense about banning hunting or locking up firearms.
Firearms need maintance and care...they cannot be locked up for 3 months...they need weekly oiling and the right conditions (no humidity etc)
Secondly, it is open season from 1st june till end january...and from this year also for 3 weeks in spring...so they woukld be locked up during febuary/march and during May...thats 3 months out of 12... and moreover...protected birdsmostly migrate during the normal open season for game birds....so poaching would still happen during open or closed seasons.
Thirdly what happens when poachers cannot use their gun because it is closed season? They use unregistered or home mmade guns (such as in the cs of Star, the shot dog)
Fourtly, what about clay or target shooters.
5th what about guns with sentimental value such as inherited guns...who will be responsible of their condition when locked up?
6th what about the possibility of organised criminals (who may have evn corrupted the police/wardens) who could possess themselves of the arms held by 17000 hunters? They would have more firepower than the arm and police placed toghether.
I am fed up of all this even more than anyone....since I was the one forming part of a team getting up at 430am to get ready for Imnarja in order to help educate children on the importance of compansatory measure. I am the one protecting cultivating and mantaining the habitat I hunt in.
I beg to differ from your claim of ' Mat tajjeb, jehel il hazin.... dejjem hekk...' as presently I still have to hear of drivers being collectively punished for the actions of joy riders....and all males being castrated or imprisoned for rapes.
Mr Anthony Formosa
Jul 1st 2011, 13:48
It arrived in Malta earlier this week and stayed in the Salina Bird Sanctuary Area until it was shot yesterday.
1) So there are law abiding hunters.
2) why this poacher didn't choose to shoot at night? When it is more convenient for poachers as Birdlife use to claim.
3) The picture was taken five hours before it was shot, and yet no pictures of the alleged culprit.
Mr Victor Falzon
Jul 1st 2011, 14:12
@ Anthony Formosa
1) If you are one of your so-called "law abiding hunters" you would be the first to condemn the act, but nothing so far but wisecracks.
2) What's your point? Ah, I guess there wasn't one...
3) Yes, the knuckle-walking dimwits who shot it turned up five hours later, by which time the photographer had left. Which part of that sentence still eludes you?
Mr Chris Xuereb
Jul 1st 2011, 14:25
You doubt the report & at the same time certain its a 'poacher' how conflicting is that?....give it time just like it was only a matter of time till we learnt that it was none other than hunters that destroyed the foresta trees or brutally killed 'star'.
...there are only 2 sides to a fence..on one side are people that shoot birds & on the other side are people that don't shoot birds...so it's pretty useless trying to sub divide a hunter from a poacher...can't you see you both share the same interests, that of shooting birds, that's why you both belong to the same proverbial 'Keffa'.
Where, what, when, why, if & but is simply irrelevant, yes i'm an extremist lover of life ..as opposed to?
Mr Wally Vella-Zarb
Jul 1st 2011, 15:48
??????????????????
Phil Humphries
Jul 1st 2011, 16:29
@ Anthony Formosa.
What are you suggesting ? - If this bird wasn't shot by a poacher, then who do you think is responsible ?
Mr Anthony Formosa
Jul 1st 2011, 16:52
Mr Humphries, Do you see a shot bird? Whoever reported these events must have been few meters away and had enough time to act, Why nobody shouted to leave the evidence behind as is the norm. And if this is proved and found guilty I wish he take what he deserves, but no one has the right to condemn all hunters.
Mr Michel Camilleri
Jul 1st 2011, 13:47
I am one for safeguarding our natural heritage, particularly visiting wildlife. We all appreciate the efforts and courage shown by true conservationists and lovers of wild-life. However instead of affording birds rest and shelter, our sanctuaries have become more like a trap to attract fine and unusual birds for the benefit of a few unscrupulous and selfish individuals. These ill-fated creatures are attracted by the isolated body of fresh water and vegetation, only to find their doom. Apart from public cooperation, more technology assisted surveillance seems to be needed. The fragile lives of these beautiful creatures are too high a price to pay to be able see them on our shores. Otherwise we do not deserve their presence here.
Mr Reuben Vella
Jul 1st 2011, 13:46
IGNORANT SAVAGES!!!
Some people are quite desperate to commit such crimes in broad daylight! They are becoming like drug addicts that will steal or do anything to get their fix!!
On the other hand I fail to see how such an act done in broad daylight in a busy road and the culprits are not identified in any way! COME ON!!!
Mr phil sam
Jul 1st 2011, 14:01
Reuben, it was carried out between two walls , on a slip way at Salina. Off the Coast Road.
Mr Biker Man
Jul 1st 2011, 13:40
Dawn iz-zewg barbari li ghamlu dan l-att prehistoriku haqqhom jitpoggew ma hajt u jinghataw 4 tiri ta' senter.
lyn nobbs
Jul 1st 2011, 13:34
This just re-enforces the opinion that the world has about Malta and wildlife/animals. Your country sees so many migrating birds that it could be made more of with your visitors. Such a shame for the bird and Malta
Mr Johnny Xerri
Jul 2nd 2011, 12:33
Lyn Nobbs,
Please state your country of origine and residence....I am sure that w=once you do so it will only take me a short while to expose how animals are treated in your country.
Poaching exists in all countries...so please don't patronise me
M. Cardona
Jul 1st 2011, 13:33
The circumstances beggar belief, however if this actually happened, it is condemned without any reservations. If things happened as alleged, the individuals (possibly non-licensees) are the ones we need to weed from our midst, they're harming us all and nullifying all our genuine efforts.
Can BLM publish the picture of the blue car and make please for identification purposes? I'm sure someone would recognise the car even if the number plates were allegedly covered.
Chris Camilleri
Jul 1st 2011, 13:19
I am a hunter but this utterly disgusting, a shame to us legal hunters and to the Maltese people....
I dont agree with people about banning hunting and bla bla bla but these are surely the same handful of poachers that keep on killing protected birds.
Shame!!!
Mr Anthony Formosa
Jul 1st 2011, 13:12
I think the way the sequence of events are reported, the alleged poacher must be one of the Incredible 4.
1) Shooting the bird.
2) Shot at 3.50 pm.
3) Two men.
4) Return in a blue car with number plate covered by cloth, but no make is mentioned.
5) Stopped close to the shot bird, when I believe there are at least 20 meters.
6) Returned to the car and left.
And Birdlife are appealing for information? when they have seen and witnessed everything. They must have a binoculars to see the six colored rings of the bird, and they must also have a sophisticated camera to photo such a picture.
Mr Joseph N. Attard
Jul 1st 2011, 13:42
Mr Formosa, the way you nit pick the report shows clearly where your sentiments lie. Other respectable hunters have already denounced the crime in no uncertain terms. The whole sequence could have been observed through binoculars. Not everybody is an expert in car identefication. Covering the numberplates is a crime in itself. The picture was take by someone else, a few hours before the bird was murdered. Only prison terms will work in the long run.
Mr Victor Falzon
Jul 1st 2011, 14:02
@ Anthony Formosa
In case you missed the bit, the bird was photographed five hours before it was shot dead by hunters. And yes the photographer had a telescope too, to read the information on the rings from a distance, which is the whole point of the rings. But that was when the bird was still alive - sadly, the photographer wasn't there five hours later when the neanderthal hunters came on the scene to do what they do best.
You people disgust me. Instead of deploring the act, you play the wise guys. But then again, keep it up: you are your hobby's worst advert.
Glenn Micallef
Jul 1st 2011, 14:06
Mr Formosa, you cast doubt on anything Birdlife says. Than, when they provide evidence you dispute its legality because there was no authorisation for the filming! Now all can see why you object so much to cameras! This way it is very easy to discredit a claim. So one day a group of your peers makes a publicity stunt (by releasing captive bred migratory Turtle Dove) to try to gain some PR points and a couple of days later, two butchers kill a Spoobill in a Nature reserve. If some were gullible enough to believe the publicity stunt, they got their reply within 48 hours. Any you complain about fences! So whether it is storks, spoonbills, opspreys, eagle or Ibis, it will inevitably be shot down as lond as it is big and rare! Ii amazes me how a couple of individuals, as you claim, can be responsible for such masscres.
Mr Anthony Formosa
Jul 1st 2011, 16:39
I only condemn when there is enough evidence. If the number plate was noticed covered with a cloth, who ever is reporting must have been close enough to shout and scare them away and leave the dead bird behind. All of you are wishing a hunting ban and clearly shows where your sentiments lie. In Malta we're all law abiding except if you're a hunter.
Mr john vella
Jul 1st 2011, 13:05
STOP HUNTING!
STOP HUNTING!
STOP HUNTING!
Weapons are expected to be handled by civilians in a civilized law abiding country. Otherwise this prove once again that our local cowboys are running the show.
Mr Anthony Formosa
Jul 1st 2011, 13:34
Anything else you wish to stop? Mr Vella.
Mr john vella
Jul 1st 2011, 13:56
@Anthony Formosa
Thanks for asking!
YES, Stop this useless murder of birds by these cowboys!
claire cp
Jul 1st 2011, 17:45
THERE SHOULD BE NO SUCH THING AS A PROTECTED BIRD OR A HUNTING SEASON. ALL BIRDS SHOULD BE PROTECTED EQUALLY AND HUNTING SHOULD BE BANNED COMPLETELY ~~~ IF PEOPLE STILL INSIST ON SHOOTING THEN THEY SHOULD BE SENT TO THE JUNGLE AND HOPEFULLY THEY WILL BE THE ONES BEING KILLED BY AN ANIMAL. ITS JUST WHAT THEY DESERVE! ALL THIS KILLING IN VAIN...ITS DISGUSTING !!!!
Mr Johnny Xerri
Jul 2nd 2011, 11:00
Claire CP
Can you please enlighten me as to why all birds should be protected and as to why hunting banned...when we can still hunt abroad...and we can still kill birds and animals by contracting a killer who is better known as a butcher?
I can enlighten you using just 5 words as your self describtion word - I am an extremist abolishionist
Mr Chris Xuereb
Jul 1st 2011, 13:01
Get ready for the usual ''shall we ban driving'' & the mystery of the illusive poachers that hunters seem so sure are the culprits & yet they can never seem to find them anywhere.
Mr Johnny Xerri
Jul 2nd 2011, 12:28
Dear Chris Xuereb...
We will instead have to get ready for the usual ban aeverything solution...and most probably if a protected species get killed them....what shall we get ready for? Maybe a statement that banning hasn't served....so we shall imprison all those that had a hunting licence?...but what if the poacher without a licence and with a home made or unregistered gun still stricks? Shall we then imprison all males? But what if it was a female poacher?
Yes democracy does not encourage collective punishment...that is why if guilty...only that person will face the hand of the law...
I have yet to hear of all judges being imprisoned for corruption because 2 were found guilty of corruption.
I have yet to hear of all drivers being imprisoned for man slaughter if one driver is found guilty.
I have yet to hear of all males being imprisoned or castrated when a rapist stricks.
Mr phil sam
Jul 1st 2011, 12:57
How Macho, they must feel.
Mr joe vella
Jul 1st 2011, 12:47
we may protest and protest and get hot under the collar as much as we feel justified to1
however it is all useless
first of all there is very poor commitment from the side of the authorities to curb such practices and especially now that the next election is already in the air
secondly, if caught, they will get away with a suspended sentence or a petty fine!
R. Gauci
Jul 1st 2011, 12:44
Ban hunting once and for all and confiscate all shotguns soon after, that's the only solution towards a civilised country.
Mr Nyal Xuereb
Jul 1st 2011, 13:08
With all due respect, shotguns are used for many more things than simply hunting. Shotguns are used for target shooting, clay shooting, tactical shooting, law enforcement, military and many others more than hunting. Incidentally, the best results ever achieved in sports by Maltese were with the use of shotguns, mostly in the Double Trap discipline of clay shooting.
Eric Camilleri
Jul 1st 2011, 13:23
Gauci you want to bet your head on a chopping board that if you ban hunting and confiscate all shotguns there will not be another protected bird shot. The problem is not the legal hunters or their legal shotguns but the criminals that are prepared to carry out such a cowardly act, even premeditating the action with covered number plates on their car. The evidence is in front of you and yet you take it out against those who have nothing to do with this crime.
Mr Anton Portelli
Jul 1st 2011, 13:47
Yes as Mr Xuereb said would anyone be willing to bet that if hunting is prohibited for a whole year and during that time all guns are confiscated there wiill be no shooting of birds or no armed criminal acts?
It will be the same because the criminal will always get his weapon illegally and unregistered so it cannot be traced.
All these anti gun campaigns are senseless, look at England where guns have been severely restricted, Did armed crime go down or dit it go UP?
Mr john vella
Jul 1st 2011, 16:08
@Mr Nyal Xuereb
It is so true that we have some of the best shooters in this sport of shotgun competition. Yes they deserve all credit, but you seem to be aware that not all hunters can afford to buy a 'shotgun' that sportsmen use for target shooting, so we can start elimination.
I for one can not except anymore cowboys, be it shooting cornered animals in their fields or incoming birds that we are also equal by right entitled to enjoy.
Other fire arms have their ammo controlled, be it if it belong to collectors or sportsmen. Why when it comes to shotguns used for hunting we do not have the same regulations? or, make it more expensive for these macho to buy or make their ammo? I think something must be done today before tomorrow. Protests is only leading to deaf ears.
K Perry
Jul 1st 2011, 16:18
If hunting WAS banned in Malta (and I havnt posted anywhere for that before the righteous formosa starts) Not one single person would starve to death or become malnourished. Ever.
Anyone ever done a survey on how much the annual migration would bring in to Malta if eco tourism was promoted? how many more bums on seats in Malta airways? how many more hotel rooms filled? how many guides and organisations would be required?.
And how much the reputation of Malta as a whole would be bettered in a very competetive tourism market?
Mr Anthony Formosa
Jul 1st 2011, 16:58
Mr Perry, do you mind explain to us which country is doing this? as far as I'm concerned it is hunting that generates millions in other countries. And yes when I see the dead bird and the culprit caught I condemn but not before.
Mr Johnny Xerri
Jul 2nd 2011, 10:57
Well K Perry,
what has been done is an estimate of how much income hunting generates.
Hunters on average spend at least €2000 per year on licences, dogs & dog food, guns, ammo, rent of fields, fuel, clothing etc....app to 17,000 (hunters and trappers) spending €2000 each = €34 million. And tis was before the €50 special licence that generated €300,000 in licences only for just 3 weeks.
Bird wathing would generate nil since Malta is not a main migratory flyway...and people for the same amount of mone would simply go the were birds really migrate...that is Spain & Marocco...
What your comment really generates is a few bums in front of their pc,....and not more bums on the airmalta
Mr Johnny Xerri
Jul 2nd 2011, 12:21
Dear K Perry,
You stated that if hunting had to be banned...."Anyone ever done a survey on how much the annual migration would bring in to Malta if eco tourism was promoted? how many more bums on seats in Malta airways? how many more hotel rooms filled? how many guides and organisations would be required?."
Waht I can comment upon is that an Economics student at the University of Malta hadconducted a study of the economic impact of a ban on hunting....he estimated tat hunters spend €2000 annually on hunting...thats 17,000 hunters * 2000 = 34million.
During spring hunting 2011 €300,000 was generated through licences alone...in just 3 weeks!!!
On the other hand I can quickly asure you, without going into the expense of a survey...that bird watching will yield peanuts since Malta is not blessed to be on a main migratory route such as Spain or Turkey.
So in other words choose more solid rguments...unless what really interests you is not...having your bum on a seat in front of your PC...but 'more bums on seats in Malta airways'
Annamaria Anastasi
Jul 1st 2011, 12:44
If you take your dog swimming you can get fined up to 11,000... let's hope the penalty for shooting a protected species is at least triple that now!
Mr Jesmar Cremona
Jul 1st 2011, 12:43
dawn it-tip ta... qas jissejhu nies imma esseri ta' razza nferjuri!
Steve Zammit
Jul 1st 2011, 12:33
X'misthija ta' pajjiz
Hawn min ma jitghallem qatt
u ghadna f'gunju.........
Mr Jean Paul gauci
Jul 1st 2011, 12:29
this is just unbelievable.
i guess some hunters never change and they are just continuing to ruin the reputation of those hunters which abide by laws!!!
Mr Anthony Formosa
Jul 1st 2011, 12:46
Is it only that some hunters never change? or is it that only hunters exists in Malta.
P Buħaġiar
Jul 1st 2011, 13:00
Sorry, but these are poachers not Hunters. poachers don't need hunting season to do such barbaric criminal acts. 1, close season. 2, Bird sanctuary, 3, shooting from a main road, 4, Protected bird, 5, Covered car number plates.
Do you call them Hunters these people? Tens of thousand very serious traffic contraventions occur each year, mostly from the same group of drivers, at least what I believe. Do you compare yourself, 'if you drive' one of them for a parking ticket contravention then?
Do you call and compare, a driver caught without license, without insurance cover, caught driving in drunken state, hit a person on pellican lights, with a driver booked on a parking ticket?
Lela Balzan
Jul 1st 2011, 12:25
These subhuman who shot down this bird should be thrown in jail.something has got to be done about all this cruelty on animals in Malta, before we get an international boycott in tourism.By an international boycott every body will suffer not only these lower form of life which killed the Bird.
Mr Johnny Xerri
Jul 2nd 2011, 10:47
Lela Balzan,
Poaching is present all over the world.
Proof;
http://www.wildlifeextra.com/go/news/raptor-poisoning.html#cr
http://raptorpolitics.org.uk/2011/03/19/table-of-scottish-raptors-found-poisoned-shot-or-trapped-1989-2011/
The above are just 2 examples...many more if you go on the cabs website...yet no country ever had an international boycott in tourism...
So now that the fear of EU Fines is over because the ECJ and EU Commission accepted Malta's right for a derogation...lets not start with a new boogyman
Christopher Grainger
Jul 1st 2011, 12:24
So now it really is time for the hunting community to establish some credibility for itself, if that is to happen the community has to be self policing, and someone, somewhere will know who was responsible for this act of environmental vandalism. Turn them in, tip off the authorities, don't turn a blind eye and protect the future of your legitimate sport. It would be good to see the FNKK being able to claim some degree of credit of bringing these people to court via it's membership.
Mr Anthony Formosa
Jul 1st 2011, 12:42
I will consult my Bible to try and ascertain whether bird's are God's creation and creatures too. Apparently not.
Even a RAT is a god creature, let's hope that if this story of event is true, shall be caught and punished.
K Perry
Jul 1st 2011, 16:06
More mumbo jumbo from A. formosa.. what is so wrong to expect legally abiding hunters to protect their sport by reporting illegal poaching/ hunting to the relevant authorities?? it happens in real Europe so whats your problem appealing to the legal membership? When i posed this question before there was no reply to it....surely an identification panel issued to memebers would weed out the irregulars?? then members can can alert the police. )r Perhaps, just perhaps some of the wrong fish might get caught in the net? Maltese hunters have been under scrutiny for a long time. why the reluctance to clear your name????
Mr ALBERT FENECH
Jul 1st 2011, 12:22
What will happen to these cowards, if - and that's a big IF - they are ever caught? Condemnations by the Government, the Opposition and the Church will be deafening by their absolute silence. After all, they cannot risk losing the votes/souls of these macho cowards who feel so big because they carry a gun. And to think, all this masquerade's under the guise of a "sport" or a "hobby". The Divorce Referendum campaign made this country thoroughly sick listening to the "pro" and "anti" factions. However, these are only a few innocent birds so - who cares? I will consult my Bible to try and ascertain whether bird's are God's creation and creatures too. Apparently not.
ALBERT FENECH
Qawra
Clayton Borg
Jul 1st 2011, 12:18
Jiena kaccatur, imma NIKKUNDANNA bil- qawwa kollha dan il- Att li sar min nies kriminali. Hawn tidher bic-car id-differenza bejn dawk li huma kaccaturi ta vera li mohhom f'gamiema u summiena u t-tajr l-ohra li huma kaccabli, u DAWK in-nies (POACHERS) li ma jinteressahom xejn mil-kacca imma mohhom biss fit-tajr illegali. Dawn gew jaqaw u jqumu u marru u sparaw fit 3 ta wara nofs in-nhar go riserva, u qalb in-nies.
Dawn it-tip ta nies qeghdin jimminnaw dak li qieghda taghmel l- FKNK u ghalhekk kull min ghandi xi informazjoni ta min spara ghal dan l-ghasfur ghandu jcempel lil pulizija, ghax dan il-ATT hadd ma jittollerah. Kemm hawn min hu INJORANT u EGOIST. Minhabba persuna wahda, nispera li ma jehilx kulhadd (ma min jikteb hawn gew).
S. Camilleri
Jul 1st 2011, 12:34
Very True... And I am sure that with such a large hunting community there must be at least one level headed individual who knows someone who may have an idea who these individuals are! Malta zghira u kaccaturi mgienen suppost anqas... Come on ... anyone. Catching these bast**** will benefit everybody!
Mr Emanuel Curmi
Jul 1st 2011, 12:40
Absolutely right Clayton. The campaigning of the FKNK against the fabrications of the antis has certainly been dealt a blow here but am sure that by releasing a few more turtle doves, they will manage to repolish the reputation of their glorious sport.
A wonderful bird is shot down in a otherwise dismal period of the year for bird variety and all you ( and the FKNK ) are worried about is a tarnished reputation. I think you have just given the words IGNORANCE and EGOISM a new dimension.
Franco Farrugia
Jul 1st 2011, 12:48
U x'differenza hemm bejn dan l-ghasfur, u 'tajr iehor kaccabbli'? Mhux kollha ghandhom dritt li jtiru u li jghixu l-hajja naturali taghhom?
Reinhard Azzopardi
Jul 1st 2011, 13:12
kellu bzonn kulhadd jahsibha bhalek habib.
M. Cardona
Jul 1st 2011, 13:49
@ Mr Franco Farrugia,
nifhem li ghalik u xi ohrajn kull ghasfur ( u hlejqa) individwali irrispettivament mir-razza ghandu l-istess drittijiet. Id-differenza hi li t-tajr kaccabbli huwa ferm aktar numeruz u ghalhekk kacca ghalih hija sostenibbli.
Nifhem ukoll li hemm min jargumenta li konservazzjoni ta' speci ssehh billi kull ghasfur individwali jigi protett. Madankollu hemm in-naha l-ohra tal-argument li l-konservazzjoni tal-ispeci tigi ssalvagwardjata dment li n-numri jibqghu sostenibbli u ghalhekk jittiehdu mizuri biex jigi protett kemm in-numru kumplessiv kif ukoll l-ambjenti rispettiv biex dan ikun jista jsehh.
Intenni li filwaqt li ghandi opinjoni differenti minn tieghek rigward il-kacca, il-punt tieghek nifhmu; ghalkemm ma naqbilx mieghu.
Rigward dan il-kaz, jekk verament sehh kif allegat, allura dan l-att huwa wiehed ta' stmerrija u kkundannat bla riservi.
Tislijiet
Matthew Dimech
Jul 1st 2011, 14:14
Proset Clayton Borg ... naqbel mieghek u naf li hawn hafna iktar kaccaturi li jahsbuha bhalek ... mhux sew li mnhabba listess erbgha min nies dejjem jehel kulhadd! ... Dawn mhux talli kisru il ligi kontra il kacca izda anke tat triq!!
@Mr Franco Farrugia .... xdifferenza emm bejn il landa tonn taz zejt u il-hut liehor tal-bahar?? mhux kollu hut?? mhux kollu andu id dritt li jghum fil miftuh minghajr ma jinqabad?? ... X'differenza hemm bejn ziemel salvagg, dak ghal horse riding, dak ghad dressages ... mhux kollha zwiemel mhux kollha ghandhom dritt ikunu liberi u jigru kemm iridu!!
Mr John Borg
Jul 1st 2011, 12:16
X'misthija ta pajjiz! U dawn kienu jafu li ghed jaghmlu xi haga hazina bin-number plates moghtijja!
Issa il-poplu Malti ma jqumx u jipporesta ghall Animal Cruelty? Ax dan mux helu u gustuz daqs kelb?
Ghalfejn Birdlife Malta biss ghed jaghmlu xi haga? Kif ma grewx il-puluzija ghall investigazjoni bhall ma gara ghall Star il-kelba?
Stefan Micallef
Jul 1st 2011, 13:02
Int fejn taf x ghamlu l puluzija?
Jimmy John M Vella
Jul 1st 2011, 12:15
Prosit. Nibqaw naqaw ghan-nejk mad-dinja...
Ray Gatt
Jul 1st 2011, 12:14
Anybody who has seen this atrocity has a duty to report these bastards.
Mr SILVIO BONAVIA
Jul 1st 2011, 12:54
Mr ferriggi, u kif tirraguna int sena hadd ma jista jsuq karrozzi peress li dik t-turista tal-qawra ittajjret u nqatlet,veru tirraguna int
Mr R ferriggi
Jul 1st 2011, 12:14
kif azzuna.
ban fuq il kacca al sena shiha please.
forsi jitghallmu dawn il barbari.
Mr Ernest Vella
Jul 1st 2011, 12:31
Bl-argument tieghek...waqfu il-parties li jsiru ghax ikun hemm id-droga forsi jitghallmu dawn il-barbari. Ma jidhirlekx li dak li ghidt huwa bla sens, ghax no.1 bhalissa il-kacca maghluqa...ghax il-kaccaturi jafu li bhalissa mhux zmien tajjeb ghal kacca anke meta kienet is-sena kollha u t-tieni haga nahseb din il-karrozza blue mhux fl-inhawi tkun...naqra sorveljanza mill-pulizija u road blocks meta jinstema tir kull ma hemm bzonn
Mr Anthony Formosa
Jul 1st 2011, 12:38
Mr Ferroggi, jekk int kontra l-kacca dik opinjoni tieghek imma ma ghandek l-ebda dritt li tissugerixxi tip ta imponiment fuq haddiehor. Kieku kullhadd jahsiba bhallhekk kieku d-dinja wieqfa. Din s'issa hija akkuza u mhemm l-ebda provi cari, ghax kulltant kif isiru l-affarijiet jew ma tantx jitwemnu jew min ghamel dan l'att kien superman. Jien kaccatur u edukat bizzejjed biex ma n'ghajjarx lil min ma naqbilx mad-delizzju tieghu.