207 hunting contraventions recorded since September 9 - CABS
A bee eater in an illegal mist net at Nadur. Photo: CABS
A total of 207 hunting contraventions have been recorded by the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) since September 9, the organisation said.
It said in a statement that some of these contraventions were recorded on video.
The offences included 29 direct shooting or hits on protected bird species. A total 27 protected birds were found dead or observed in flight with obvious shotgun injuries. These species included a Lesser Spotted Eagle as well as Marsh Harriers, Honey Buzzards, Kestrels, Bee-eaters, Barn Swallows and Swifts and Finches.
Other offences involved the use of automatic weapons and electronic bird lures, illegal trapping and flouting of the afternoon hunting curfew.
CABS said that these statistics did not include the 12 protected birds found in a five-metre ditch on the Dwejra Lines on September 14.
At this location, four days earlier, a CABS team had observed two men shooting at Bee-eaters, Barn Swallows and other small birds.
Committee spokesman Axel Hirschfeld said:
"The men responsible for this massacre were identified by the police from video material provided by us. It shows two individuals who have come to the attention of the police previously in connection with illegal hunting. "Both of them have admitted shooting the Bee-eaters at this place and time and will now have to reckon with criminal proceedings being taken against them."
CABS said that another serious incident took place last Sunday in the fields between Fiddien and Mtahleb, where some 80 Marsh Harriers had come to roost shortly before dusk.
A BirdLife standing patrol on watch at the site witnessed several people with torches entering the site around 9 p.m. and firing several shots at the birds.
A stand-by CABS team was alerted by BirdLife and scanned the area with a thermo-camera.
Five people were located huddled in a darkened vehicle parked on a track adjacent to the harriers.
The video material was handed over to the Rabat police who called in the owner of the vehicle for assistance in their enquiries.
CABS said the man at first denied being present at the scene of the crime but when he was shown the video material he admitted to having been in the vicinity of the birds.
CABS said it published a Youtube video that shows the shooting down of Honey Buzzards in Gudja, Fawwara, Ghar Lapsi and near the Malta International Airport runway.
The film also shows bird guards extricating dead song birds (two Red-backed Shrikes and a Common Redstart) from an illegal mist net discovered under Nadur Tower, and freeing a living Bee-eater from the same trap.
A second illegal clap net was found by a CABS patrol near the Fiddien water reservoir on Monday.
It was removed and confiscated by ALE officers.
Other film sequences show birds of prey with shotgun injuries in flight, freshly-shot Bee-eaters and the illegal use of electronic bird decoys for Quail hunting.
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Ms Sylvana Zarb Darmanin
Sep 25th 2011, 14:39
Chris Xuereb, the famous black t-shirts have become obsolete. And who in his right frame of mind would ridicule himself wearing it?! We already have many personalities regretting having posed with it!!!!
Ms Sylvana Zarb Darmanin
Sep 25th 2011, 13:39
Glenn Micallef, I suggest you enquiry with a legal person and inform yourself that it is illegal to be bare-chested on a road (and NOT in a field as you stated). I abide by the law and do not trespass onto private property. Hence, I spoke to the three gentlemen on the road! Regarding the Fiddien incident, were YOU present. I would think so as otherwise you would not vouch for something which you were not present at!
G Caruana, I dare you to clearly state that I defend poachers or "cover up for them". I invariably condemn ALL illegalities including poaching. If you are man enough, just do it!
Steve Zammit, you start by stating that I do not deserve an answer YET you answered!! Decide!! "silly childish arguments!" are those brought forward by extremist antis and BLM's untruths which I mentioned earlier. I suggest you read my first comment again to see that I did condemn these illegalities, contrary to what you are doing. You are not condemning CABS Officials illegalities! Am I asking for too much when I expect that EVERYBODY abides by the law?!
Ms Sylvana Zarb Darmanin
Sep 24th 2011, 17:22
Victor Falzon, "the world id coming to" having people like you accepting illegalities from CABS yet condemning illegalities of poachers. One is expected to invariably condemn illegalities! Meanwhile, tkomplix iddahhaq nies bik! And what about trespassing?! Do you accept this illegality as well?!
Ms Sylvana Zarb Darmanin
Sep 24th 2011, 15:40
Lawrence Attard, why are you conveniently avoiding CAB's illegalities?! One wonders! For your info, I invariably condemn illegalities. Maybe, you find it difficult to just condemn, even with "one word of condemnation "ghal kirjanza"," CAB's wrong-doings?! My comparison did not go down well with the antis. Do you find it so hard to understand my comment, i.e. since antis generalise regarding poachers and law-abiding hunters, is one expected to generalise regarding CAB officials? That is the argument and please do stick to it should you wish to be taken seriously! Meanwhile, I dare you to state that I have EVER protected poachers. Then just fact the music!
Steve Zammit, who actually needs to "Get real and present a decent argument!"?! Maybe the once who try winning an argument by putting poachers and hunters in one basket and cry BAN hunting? Maybe those who persisted (and wore that famous black t-shirt) that Spring Hunting is illegal? Maybe those who stated that Malta in on the main migratory route and that turtle-doves and quails are threatened species, only to be proved wrong by the ECJ?! Maybe those who carry flick-knives in public spaces?! Come on, Sir, let us have A DECENT ARGUMENT!!
Glenn Micallef, you are another one trying to avoid the argument! ARE CABS OFFICIALS EXPECTED TO ABIDE BY THE LAW OR NOT??!! Meanwhile, may I assure you that the three CABS officials themselves admitted to having trespassed. Well certain individuals choose to call the police, others take a more pro-active role and face the law-breakers! If these officials try to trespass again, I assure you that this time round, I will call the police BUT I preferred to be more prudent and face them myself first time round. I urge you to read my comment again. NO, Sir I was not present at Fiddien last Sunday, after dark. Therefore, contrary to what most antis do, I cannot vouch for what happened when I was not around!
Glenn Micallef
Sep 24th 2011, 17:00
It's a pity you weren't there madame, maybe you would have been pro-active and faced the law-breakers! That would have been great, as unfortunately those present chose to call the police, and the culprits managed to get away by the time the police arrived.
While I agree with you that trepassing is illegal and should be condemned, I am not of the same opinion that for a man to be bare chested in the middle of a field is illegal. I am no lawyer and honestly do not know the laws that deal with such occurances. If it is as you claim, the government should have enforced the law, and I guarantee that our country would, within one single summer, have collected enough money to weather the financial crisis the world is in.
G Caruana
Sep 24th 2011, 17:23
An easy gauge of how often hunters commit crimes can be found by the number of times you write on these blogs trying to cover up for them.
maybe it's time to stop babbling nonsense & start vouching for once.
Steve Zammit
Sep 24th 2011, 22:04
You don't even deserve a reply Ms. SZD !! Stop clutching at straws and just condemn the illegalities that go on daily rather then trying to distract the readers with your silly childish arguments!
And i never cried for a ban on hunting....all I expect is hunters to obey the rules! Why can't I enjoy a Honey Buzzard or Kestrel fly low over a valley full of hunters without getting shot! I'm I asking for too much???
Kevin Gauci
Sep 24th 2011, 11:33
in the footage 2.34 you can see clearly that the bird was alive while handling it, and on the footage 2.52 they said it is dead, SO WHY DIDN'T YOU REALISE IT WHEN IT WAS STILL ALIVE BUT YOU RATHER WAS HAPPY TO TAKE PICTURES OF IT AND LEFT IT TO DIE!!!
Glenn Micallef
Sep 24th 2011, 08:16
@Ms Zarb Darmanin.
The issue the hunting lobby fails to see is that it is not CABS who tarnish the reputation of the law abiding hunters, but the law breaking ones. CABS just report what they observe. Furthermore, the law abiding hunter looses all credibility with the general public because they continue to live in a state of denial and 10000 of them NEVER observe (or report) and illegality and a handful of CABS personnel manage to film illegalities in their two weeks stay.
Being bare chested is a very serious crime. However, were they on public or private property? You claim they were trespassing, so..... Please remember that trespassing is a crime, so you should have called the police, or at least taken a picture (or video) to substaniate your claim. By any chance, did you hear the shots that fell after dark, last Sunday at Fiddien? Sorry I forgot, you never witness any illegal hunting, it is CABS that commit illegalities, bilhaqq.
Ms Sylvana Zarb Darmanin
Sep 23rd 2011, 17:12
While condemning such illegalities (though exagerrated), I likewise condemn all those trying to tarnish ALL hunters' reputation by generalising. Had I to do the same as they are doing, I would ask for a ban on CABS. Three of the CABS officials present at Fiddien last Sunday, were earlier in the afternoon trespassing onto private property in Imtahleb. Also one of these three gentlemen was bare-chested. Actually, I went to draw their attention to their trespassing and the illegality by one of them. Since THREE out of THREE were trespassing, are we to say that ALL CABS officials are trespassers?! Are we to say that all CABS do not respect the Maltese Law of being well-dressed in public?! This is the type of banal reasoning used by antis! Come on grow up!!
Lawrence Attard
Sep 23rd 2011, 19:10
So hunters shooting at birds of prey and trappers illegally ttrapping and catching protected birds get one word of condemnation "ghal kirjanza", and the entire article is lambasting of CABS for trespassing and being top less, and attacking anyone else who has the audacity to criticize hunters. I think you have your priorities wrong Ms Zarb Darmanin. You should be adding some serious contribution against those who really are tarnishing hunters reputation, namely the poachers.
When are hunters going to realise that their real enemy carries a shotgun not a camera? So long as you keep routinely attacking every report as either a setup, or when the freezer idea wont work because of footage play it down as an exaggeration, all you are doing is supporting and even protecting the poachers. They are surely encouraged to keep on poaching because wheneverreports of their misdeeds appear, they can rest assured you have their back by trying to neutralize those reports!
Steve Zammit
Sep 23rd 2011, 19:59
The only people that are really tarnishing the law abiding hunters are the illegal hunters/poachers themselves and not the people that try to highlight the problem!!! Get real and present a decent argument!
If you really love birds and if you real want to stop illegal hunting, you would be thanking CABS and birdlife for the great work they are doing. Their action is something that the hunting federations and authorities should have done long ago!!
Mr Victor Falzon
Sep 24th 2011, 16:13
A bare-chested man? You actually mean a living human male in a state of utter toplessness?
My oh my oh my, WHAT is the world coming to?
Mr Chris Xuereb
Sep 25th 2011, 09:10
Maybe they were wearing their black t-shirts & had to take them off as it irritates you so much.
Frank Muscat
Sep 23rd 2011, 16:53
I am not a hunter, but I went hunting twice in England with a friend of mine with whom I was living. He told me to shoot only at a legal specific breed of the moment. Otherwise if caught we will be jailed for a minimum of three months besides loosing the licence indefinitly. This is what should happen in our country and not a miserable fine or suspended sentence. Also in England I read in this newspaper a couple of years back that a person was jailed for three months for keeping alive in captivity an eagle. The reason brought was that now that eagle if let free will die as it was fed and not capable of hunting herself.
Johnny Xerri
Sep 24th 2011, 13:13
Although I understand your point, and yes harsh sentences will act as a deterant...the UK is no saintly hunters lodge...I too have been on numerous visits to hunt there (around 2 -3 times a year for the past 10 years) and personal experience tells me otherwise...raptors are commonly shot at...and even poisoned. People do not always get jail terms and many a time the fine is simply rediculous.
Mr P Cardona
Sep 23rd 2011, 15:40
Even one single contravention is one too many, let alone 207! You are bound to have one or two black sheep in a fold of about 12000 licensed hunters! No difference than any other sector of life you care to mention. But knowing the way of CABS works to bloat figures: each single shot heard gets the tick for one other contravention, makes one think!
This propaganda highlighted in the media gives the impression that illegalities are rife and even wide spread! A shot can be heard for miles and miles, covering end to end of this little rock of ours. If it was not for all the publicity, many would not be even aware of an open season! And between you me, not even genuine hunters have themselves seen it happen; this year’s extremely poor migration we are having, up to now at least!
Mr Charles Gauci
Sep 23rd 2011, 16:55
Mr. Cardona, the tragedy is not that 'you are bound to have one or two black sheep in a fold of about 12000 licenced hunters'. The tragedy is that reality shows there are hardly one or two WHITE SHEEP in a fold of about 12000 licenced hunters.
Mr P Cardona
Sep 23rd 2011, 20:03
Mr Charles Gauci
Your maths is warped Sir. If truth was even remotely near to the way you try tarnish everything hunting, you yourself would not even think to venture the Maltese countryside! You paint it worse than the recent battle fields witnessed in Libya, all black!
Mr Charles Gauci
Sep 23rd 2011, 22:41
Mr. Cardona, I speak in this manner because I have spent most of my life out in the field and hardly a day goes by without me witnessing hunting illegalities. Also how come protected birds are regularly shot in l-Ahrax tal-Mellieha and not one White Sheep reports the Black Sheep which is causing so much bad publicity? Reason tells me that it is because there might be no White Sheep after all.
Mr Anthony Formosa
Sep 23rd 2011, 14:36
As a hunter, I do respect BLM efforts to monitor and eradicate any illegalities, however what I do not understand is why BLM/CABS always refuse to have a police escort, isn't that dangerous to be out there all alone at night? even when BLM/CABS always claim that they can be attacked by hunters. What is the use of filming when the culprit is not handed over to the police, because BLM/CABS refuse to have a police escort? Should the speed cameras be like BLM/CABS?
What is behind the publishing a youtube video? You probably knew about the mist net, and instead of being proactive to save some birds, you chose to have some dead birds to create a video. Why no similar videos from other countries are not seen on youtube?
Contravensions are only relevant when the accused is found guilty.
K Perry
Sep 24th 2011, 00:22
Mr Formosa : How many "poachers" have you reported to the police/federation. Its the usual half dozen words of illegal shooting then the rest of your comment attempts to shift some sort of conspiracy theory onto CABS/BLM. As these organisations work in conjunction with such respected organisations as the RSPB in the UK and others worldwide, they are more respected for their work than those that try the tawdry tactic of a smear campaign.
Sir, Actions speak louder than words , and unfortunately the Federation has been turned into a pillar of salt in respect of a lack of a proactive campaign to catch/identify poachers and a deafening silence of statements stating their abhorrance of the slaugher of protected species..and this has been the case for years.
how hunters think this is advancing their image with the general public is unclear..reading this thread it doesnt seem to be working in Malta.
MARK MIFSUD BONNICI
Sep 23rd 2011, 14:27
Emmanuel Curmi & S. Camilleri,
Finches do not migrate during this period and subsequently the possibility of seeing any finch at this time of year is very remote to say the least. Even more remote is reporting shooting "Finches". Any allegation to this effect is incorrect and very misleading.
As for your comments re my apologetic comments or to figments of my imagination. I suggest you re-read what I wrote:
"As for their other claims we sincerely hope they have enough evidence to convict whoever persists in breaking laws to the detriment of Malta's international image and its hunters."
We would rather see convicted criminals rather than bad propaganda that only serves to incite hatred towards all hunters.
Sandro Pace
Sep 23rd 2011, 14:13
I hope that poor nice bird in the upper photo has been saved.
Karl Falzon
Sep 23rd 2011, 13:18
Good thing these people have been identified and are being prosecuted. Yes, good job CABS! Unfortunately incident's like these will continue to occur, these illegalities are just iterative! But with reports like these, maybe these 'so-called' cowboys, will think twice before committing such acts.
Mr Jay Oatmon
Sep 23rd 2011, 13:03
These bird killers will continue to break the law unless they receive proper deterrent sentences (unlikely - this is Malta).
With the police / law being ineffectual and no reasonable chance of these illegal hunters obeying the law - there is only one reasonable course of action BAN ALL HUNTING!
The bird killers will have to revert to clay pigeon shooting or targets - in order to protect the remaining birds from being blasted to pieces.
Johnny Xerri
Sep 24th 2011, 12:43
Mr Oatmon...are we to ban all brits from the island when then first few british holigans start a fight at a certain pub in bugibba square, after they have lost a match?
Mr Oatmon, poaching happens all over the world even in the UK...yet did any one single country ban hunting due to poaching...?
Clayton Borg
Sep 23rd 2011, 12:28
With these videos BLM have, they can track the individuals. What is wrong we have to call it wrong. But to say ban hunting because of some individuals is not fair. The 207 illegalities are counted, if for example a poacher shot 3 shots after 3pm those are 3 illegalities. And why all birds with missing feathers are said to be caused by illegal gun shots?? Who knows about the subject knows that these birds could be subject to moults.
Who says that hunting is just a tradition I do not agree. If its only tradition or just a hobby (like somebody claims) you do it when you just feel like doing it. For me hunting is not just a hobby is a way of life. My life goes around this passion. For example, I can't stand not going hunting when its open season, even if I know I'm going there for nothing. Also when I had to choose my job I make sure that I can take my leave during the hunting season and that I do not have any shutdowns so my leave will be spent just for hunting. The rest of the year when I'm not hunting, I will load my cartridges, I will train my dogs just to keep them in shape. Arrange the field to be more attractive to birds.
Hunting is not just the killing of a bird, that is just the result and the reward, but hunting is all the preparation that is done before the result too. This a lot of you ignore or do not want to take it into consideration. Also one is to mention all the money that is involved, buying things for ammunition, the hire of land to be PRIVATE to us hunters, giving special food to dogs. A hunter that hires land to go hunting and paying all licenses buying cartridges, will spend from 1000 to 2000 euro a year.
Than after all that when I manage to catch any of the 32 huntable species, we gether them and we will make a dinner with all the friends, even those who do not hunt. Its a way to celebrate.
Mr Victor Falzon
Sep 23rd 2011, 15:22
"Who knows about the subject knows that these birds could be subject to moults."
From what you wrote about the raptures of hunting, you must surely count yourself one who "knows about the subject". So in your great wisdom, do you claim that the barn swallow at 1:40 and the marsh harrier at 2:00 were "subject to moult"? And hey look, that honey-buzzard at 1:35 is moulting its leg too! And perhaps those bee-eaters at 4:35 moulted themselves to death too?
Who knows about the subject knows when to shut up! You guys are your own worst enemy.
Clayton Borg
Sep 23rd 2011, 16:16
@ Victor Falzon,
As I mentioned above, I know that there are some illegalities going around, and I condemn such acts. Regarding the Marsh Harrier at 2.00 yes it may be a moult. The others unfortunately seems to be something else.
As I said earlier, Quote "Jien kontra dawn l-illegalitajiet kollha u kategorikament nikkundanna lil dawk kollha li kisru il-ligi. U min jinqabad ghandu jihu li haqqu. Hemm bzonn li dawk kollha li jghidu li huma delettanti tal- kacca jgibu rwiehom ta VERA KACCATURI. Il- Kaccatur ta vera ghandu etika, IVA, hemm etika, u nimxu maghha."
Steve Zammit
Sep 23rd 2011, 20:32
Re: ''the Marsh Harrier at 2.00 yes it may be a moult''
That is definitely not a moult Mr.Clayton! Just look at the extent of this 'moult'...its main primaries are blown off! Also moults mostly happen in the summer period and are minor. When they do moult a lot, you will notice the moult on both wings uniformly - not the case here
I have seen birds of prey getting shot at in Malta, and then come over with missing primaries and secondries. This is due to the shot gun injuries they sustain. What can we say about dangling legs?
Unfortunately this is reality! Hope it stops, today before tomorrow!
Regards
Steve Zammit
Sep 23rd 2011, 11:45
Well done CABS, Keep up the great work you are doing
Isola Danti
Sep 23rd 2011, 11:18
Despicable barbaric slaughters, all in the name of ‘tradition’. Have those people ever thought of one day their decedents may only be able to see those beautiful creatures in museum or on ‘History’ channel because of their forefathers’ ‘hobby’? I doubt if such thought had ever crossed their mind, or else they wouldn’t have committed such heartless, brainless and lawless deed. Let’s face it, some people unfortunately are incorrigible and too ignorant to be civilized, therefore a much harsher law and much stronger law enforcement are badly needed. Well done, CABS team and ALE officers.
francis Buhagiar
Sep 23rd 2011, 15:16
My dear it is not only hunting that can sterminate birds but also unsustainable developments. Unfortunately some of those which we see militating against hunters and trappers will never show up when people an NGOs will be protesting against building permits isud on NDZs.
MARK MIFSUD BONNICI
Sep 23rd 2011, 11:17
Can CABS please specify what sort of finches they recorded being shot? Considering no finch species are present in Malta before the end of October their observations to this effect allege an impossibility.
As for their other claims we sincerely hope they have enough evidence to convict whoever persists in breaking laws to the detriment of Malta's international image and its hunters.
Mark Mifsud Bonnici
Secretary
St. Hubert Hunters
Mr Emanuel Curmi
Sep 23rd 2011, 12:27
in fact you do get the odd linnet here and there but that is besides the point. There are 2 videos attached to this article and yet you are always the first to allegate that hunting contraventions in Malta are a figment of the Cabs imagination.
Ever considered changing the name of your patron from St. Hubertus to St. Thomas. Whichever the case the saintly image that you are trying to project for your association is neither plausible nor appropriate.
You may be more familiar with the local bird scene is concerned but that what you, and your like, represent is an embarrasment to a civilized nation is also factual.
S. Camilleri
Sep 23rd 2011, 12:54
@MMB
What's your point? Do you expect a DNA sample as well? I think that enough evidence is shown here on line so I imagine more is available. Such apologetic comments do little for the credibility of your organisation.
In general may I suggest that whoever is convicted, apart from a heavy fine and maybe imprisonment in the case of repeat offenses, gets to be electronically tagged during the hunting season.
Mr Joe Camilleri
Sep 23rd 2011, 11:17
Let the moaning start.
and
Let us see how many BAN HUNTING useless comments start to pour in.
Franco Attard Trevisan
Sep 23rd 2011, 12:24
BAN HUNTING!
Lawrence Attard
Sep 23rd 2011, 12:38
Marsh harriers, bee-eaters, honey buzzards, shrikes....as alien as it may sound to some, the majority of us very much prefer to watch these birds grace our skies alive. So considering the above reports I think the 'moaning', as you call it, is more than justified! Actually ANYONE who claims to be an ethical and legal hunter should also be complaining about such numerous incidents of illegal hunting and trapping, and applauding the capture and prosecution of those responsible.
And yes of course there will be Ban Hunting comments - and these will not only persist but continue getting louder and louder as long as such blatant illegal shooting and slaughter continues to take place, which unfortunately for any genuine hunters, appears to be a regular feature of each open season. You know what happens to the 'garra' b'kull qatra' ... so instead of lambasting the 'moaners' don't you think you would be better off blaming those who are CREATING the incidents in the first place?
Mr nazzapeno dimech
Sep 23rd 2011, 12:59
@ Franco Attard whatever
You wish :)
S. Briffa
Sep 23rd 2011, 13:04
Yeah yeah all hunters and trappers go out to enjoy the nature and the sunrise, what a farse and with that noise you all make once you start shooting altogether!!! PATHETIC!!!
Lawrence Attard
Sep 23rd 2011, 10:52
Thermo-cameras! No camouflage jacket is going to conceal any poacher from that. Seems the hunt against illegal hunting in Malta continues to get better and better, and the results continue to show it. Great work CABS, please keep it up!
Clayton Borg
Sep 23rd 2011, 15:02
Il-problema taf x'inhi Lawrence, li lanqas biex ifitxu lil Bin Laden u lil Gaddafi ma uzaw din it-teknologija fina kollha, u ghat-traffikanti tat-drogi....... !!!!! Imma il-kaccatur qieghed jigi ippersegwitat min dawn kollha.
Jien kontra dawn l-illegalitajiet kollha u kategorikament nikkundanna lil dawk kollha li kisru il-ligi. U min jinqabad ghandu jihu li haqqu. Hemm bzonn li dawk kollha li jghidu li huma delettanti tal- kacca jgibu rwiehom ta VERA KACCATURI. Il- Kaccatur ta vera ghandu etika, IVA, hemm etika, u nimxu maghha.
Imma sfortunatament hemm min ghadu mhux matur bizzejed u jaghmel dawn il-hmerijiet.
Lawrence Attard
Sep 23rd 2011, 15:18
Good work to the ALE and local police officers too!
Mr Charles Gauci
Sep 23rd 2011, 17:04
@Clayton Borg
Mela dawn kaccaturi mhux 'poachers' wara kollox!
Joanna Dimech
Sep 23rd 2011, 10:52
Why can't you leave these poor birds alone.............shooting and snaring them is wrong.
Malta is great but when it comes to the treatment of animals and birds they must rank first in the world!!
francis Buhagiar
Sep 23rd 2011, 15:27
Ms Joanna Dimech I belive you are not interested in reading or watching foregn news. When one consider what the Italians and Germans kill our hunters are Saints. they shoot bears deers boars mountain goats mountain cats eagles vultures and any thing that one can immagine. Malta is and will remain great when it comes to the treatmnt of animals and humanbings too.
FRANS H SAID
Sep 23rd 2011, 10:37
The hunters are a strong lobby. Political parties can loose votes.
S. Camilleri
Sep 23rd 2011, 12:57
Very True ... But the anti-hunting lobby is getting Stronger and Stronger. Politicians are realising that they cannot give in to blackmailing by hunters any more! Two can play at the same game :)
Clayton Borg
Sep 23rd 2011, 13:34
@ S Camilleri,
I can prove you wrong sir. As you know Alternattiva Demokratika, was all out against hunting, and if as you said the ANTI's are getting stronger alternattiva should have gained votes but it wasn't like that. Also I can prove that the Hunting lobbys' strenght by proving that the 4 of the 6 candidates for the EU parlament that where elected where pointed out as they will do their best to help us in our passion. And they are there. Guess why??
Mr Charles Gauci
Sep 23rd 2011, 17:08
Remember when The FKNK general secretary contested the MEP elections Mr. Said?
K Perry
Sep 24th 2011, 00:34
Foxhunters in UK thought they were invincible too and would have their way - But the Majority of people were against it and now the hunting of Animals with dogs is illegal. that means hare coursing and stag hunting too. So dont think never means never......
Johnny Xerri
Sep 24th 2011, 12:22
K Perry,
Wrong again...fox hunting with hounds is not illegal as long as the fox hunters have a shotgunner in their party.
Apart from the simple fact that hare, fox and rabbit can still be legally hunted with shotgun, rifle (centre fire and rim fire) and air rifles.
Johnny Xerri
Sep 24th 2011, 12:34
Mr Gauci...the FKNK GS Mr Farrugia was not elected but got comparable votes to all the environmental candidates. One would expect that from all the haroing of the majority is against hunting that this majoirty would outcast the 17,000 hunters and not get comparable or in same cases less votes.
Hunters candidate;
Mr Farrugia 3119
Sworn anti hunting candidates;
Mr Demicoli 1108
Mr Deidun 3239
Sworn anti hunting party;
Arnold Casola 5235
Moreover, in 2004 when hunting was not changed by much Arnold Casola has garnered 25253 votes...when the extremisim started he only got 5235...guess people are getting fed up with green parties...who are more green with envy then due to green credentials
K Perry
Sep 24th 2011, 19:18
J Xerri: Care to point out where foxhunting with DOGS is still legal in the UK? ....I expect you will grasp at excetions but twenty plus mounted riders with just two dogs where they used to have a pack of fifty? ive yet to see it.
from DEFRAS own site ... check the definition of 'hunting'.
And again you try dont you - its well known that rabbits and foxes can be shot with a gun...thats always been the case...I never attempted to say it wasnt LEGAL did I? or have you forgotten i used to be allowed to control pests on several farms????
Hunting Act 2004
Under the Hunting Act 2004, it is illegal to hunt wild mammals with a dog in England and Wales (there are some exceptions to this). 'Hunting' includes using one or more dogs to chase a wild mammal with the intention of catching or killing it.
You can find out more about why hunting is banned, controlling pests, the impact on the countryside and more, from the Defra website.
Hunting information from Defra Opens new window
Penalties
If a person is prosecuted and found guilty of an offence under the Hunting Act, they may have to pay a fine of up to £5,000. The court also has other powers, for example, it can confiscate (take away) the dog(s) or any hunting equipment used in committing the offence.
The Hunting Act also makes it an offence for someone to allow others to use their land for illegal hunting.
Examples of when hunting is allowed
Certain types of hunting are allowed but there are strict conditions applied to these exemptions.
Examples of when hunting with a dog is allowed include:
Stalking and flushing out
Up to two dogs may be used to stalk or flush out a wild mammal if it's carried out for a permitted reason. For example;
•if it is to prevent serious damage which the wild mammal would cause to livestock or gamebirds
•if it is to to preserve the biological diversity of an area
Hunting rats and rabbits
These can be hunted on your own land, or (with the permission of the occupier or owner) on other land.
Retrieving hares which have been shot
A dog can be used to retrieve a hare that has been shot on your own land. I can also be used to retrieve one shot (with the permission of the occupier or owner) on other land.
Rescue of wounded animals
Up to two dogs may be used to rescue a wild mammal if the hunter thinks that the wild mammal is, or may be, injured. For example, a deer that has been legally shot but only injured.
Drag hunting and trail hunting
Drag hunting is a sport using either fox hounds or bloodhounds. It involves the laying of an artificial scent which the dogs, and people on horseback who are taking part, follow.
Trail hunting is an alternative to 'live quarry' hunting. It involves laying the scent of a wild mammal (like a fox) which the dogs, and people on horseback who are taking part, follow.
The Masters of Draghounds and Bloodhounds Association (Drag hunts) Opens new window
If you think someone is hunting illegally
If you wish to report someone who you believe is hunting illegally, you should contact the police.
The police can arrest anybody who they reasonably suspect to be hunting illegally, or who they think are about to do so. They can stop and search people and vehicles and also take away vehicles, dogs or possessions for use as evidence in prosecutions.
Someone who lets their dog(s) chase a wild mammal while out walking in the countryside could also be prosecuted under the Hunting Act.
K Perry
Sep 25th 2011, 09:53
Xerro :wrong??
Hunting with dogs
It is illegal for a person to hunt a wild mammal with a dog - although there are some exceptions to this. Wild mammals include foxes, hares and deer. Find out more about hunting, the Hunting Act 2004 and when some types of hunting are allowed.
Hunting Act 2004
Under the Hunting Act 2004, it is illegal to hunt wild mammals with a dog in England and Wales (there are some exceptions to this). 'Hunting' includes using one or more dogs to chase a wild mammal with the intention of catching or killing it.
You can find out more about why hunting is banned, controlling pests, the impact on the countryside and more, from the Defra website.
Hunting information from Defra Opens new window
Penalties
If a person is prosecuted and found guilty of an offence under the Hunting Act, they may have to pay a fine of up to £5,000. The court also has other powers, for example, it can confiscate (take away) the dog(s) or any hunting equipment used in committing the offence.
The Hunting Act also makes it an offence for someone to allow others to use their land for illegal hunting.
Examples of when hunting is allowed
Certain types of hunting are allowed but there are strict conditions applied to these exemptions.
Examples of when hunting with a dog is allowed include:
Stalking and flushing out
Up to two dogs may be used to stalk or flush out a wild mammal if it's carried out for a permitted reason. For example;
•if it is to prevent serious damage which the wild mammal would cause to livestock or gamebirds
•if it is to to preserve the biological diversity of an area
Hunting rats and rabbits
These can be hunted on your own land, or (with the permission of the occupier or owner) on other land.
Retrieving hares which have been shot
A dog can be used to retrieve a hare that has been shot on your own land. I can also be used to retrieve one shot (with the permission of the occupier or owner) on other land.
Rescue of wounded animals
Up to two dogs may be used to rescue a wild mammal if the hunter thinks that the wild mammal is, or may be, injured. For example, a deer that has been legally shot but only injured.
Drag hunting and trail hunting
Drag hunting is a sport using either fox hounds or bloodhounds. It involves the laying of an artificial scent which the dogs, and people on horseback who are taking part, follow.
Trail hunting is an alternative to 'live quarry' hunting. It involves laying the scent of a wild mammal (like a fox) which the dogs, and people on horseback who are taking part, follow.
The Masters of Draghounds and Bloodhounds Association (Drag hunts) Opens new window
If you think someone is hunting illegally
If you wish to report someone who you believe is hunting illegally, you should contact the police.
The police can arrest anybody who they reasonably suspect to be hunting illegally, or who they think are about to do so. They can stop and search people and vehicles and also take away vehicles, dogs or possessions for use as evidence in prosecutions.
Someone who lets their dog(s) chase a wild mammal while out walking in the countryside could also be prosecuted under the Hunting Act.
Johnny Xerri
Sep 25th 2011, 14:59
K Perry,
What the bananas are you on about?
I assure you that things are very different to what you claim...
read dear read
On 19th February 2005 every hunt in the country met and they have continued to do so ever since. There have been just nine attempts to prosecute MFHA hunts under the Act and six of them failed. The first, involving Exmoor huntsman Tony Wright, eventually reached the High Court where a very important judgment limited further the chances of hunts being convicted under the Hunting Act. There have only been three successful prosecutions involving MFHA packs and one of those is currently subject to repeal.
The coalition Government formed in 2010 has promised a free vote on the Hunting Act. In June 2010 the Prime Minister’s office confirmed that commitment saying:
“The Hunting Act was passed by Parliament in 2004. It has not been a demonstrable success, and is difficult to enforce. It is an unnecessary drain on police resources and there have been few prosecutions. Only three hunts have been successfully prosecuted for illegal hunting.
“That is why the Government wishes to give Parliament the opportunity to review the Hunting Act and, if it wishes, repeal this legislation. We will put forward a motion before the House of Commons on whether the Hunting Act should be repealed and, if the motion is carried, we will bring forward legislation in due course.”
http://www.mfha.org.uk/hunting-and-hounds/foxhounds/the-hunting-act-2004/
I am more in touch with the hunting and shooting currently on going in the UK cause I happen to visit very often to engage in such practices...and as my game keeper often says;
'I could not adam and eve my mice, the berkeley hunts were out again, can't they see they're just an hampton full of pony and trap...try'na be a pain in the cobblers awls...aya with different frog and toad..we met with Charlie and got him along with us as they could only D'Oyly Carte...soon they're only gona be good for us to Jimmy Riddle on...and they can J Arthur Rank at each other"
When your next up in a rural pub ordering your next round of britney spears (briteny spears is slang for beer) please tell them you were called a burkeley hunt and hampton by a Maltese...you could also look up the following words (adam and eve, mice, burkeley hunt, cobblers awls, hamptom, pony and trap, Charlie, D'Oyly Carte, Jimmy Riddle, and J Arthur Rank) so that you will know what my game keeper (and other rural people) thought of the ban and the antis.
You seem to forget that the world today is small enough for people to know what goes on in other countries!!!
Marco Farrugia
Sep 23rd 2011, 10:35
Numerous shots could also be heard early this morning from Burmarrad.
This article goes to show the large scale of illegal hunting (some prefer to call it poaching - mneehh) on our islands.
D Borg
Sep 23rd 2011, 11:32
Mr. Farrugia,
Pls note that currently the killing season is open - thus it is not illegal to shoot and kill (unprotected birds).
And this is the crucial problem.
We have seen from the film footage protected birds being shot at and killed, the problem is that when the police arrive (if and when) - anyone with a shotgun in hand will claim that he has been shooting at quails, turtle doves etc.
Thus any shot heard cannot be pinpointed as illegal, unless there is undeniable proof that the said hunter was the culprit.
This brings us why BLM and CABS are taking the thankless initiative to observe and film these illegalities, and for their tasks they get lambasted - at times literally - by the supposedly 'Zero Tollerance' FKNK - who one cannot deny turns a blind eye whenever it can.