L-Imtaħleb area (l/o Rabat)

The area includes two valleys within the Mtaħleb area, which are characterised by springs which lead to the formation of riparian formations as well as maquis communities. Among the population of trees in the area one can find large Mediterranean willow trees (żafżafa żgħira), a good population of the white poplar tree (luq), together with black mulberry trees (tut), white mulberry trees (ċawsli), bay laurel (rand) and an old copse of olive trees (żebbuġ). One very old individual jujube tree (żinżel) exists and merits protection due to its age and rarity.

The area has been protected since 1996, and is declared as a Natura 2000 site; as an Area of Ecological Importance; a Nature Reserve; and a Special Area of Conservation of International Importance.

Mepa declared this site as a Tree Protected Area on May 24, in accordance with the provisions of the Trees and Woodlands Protection Regulations (2011) as per Government Notice number 473/11.