Is-Simar nature reserve in Xemxija celebrated spring early this year when two little grebe chicks hatched last week. Two pairs of the birds, known as Blongun Żgħir in Maltese, incubated their eggs over the new year. The chicks have already been spotted exploring their new wetland habitat by their parents’ side. The reserve is the only place in Malta where such birds breed successfully, with the last being born in 2011. The latest chicks are the earliest ever recorded on the island. The reserve is open on Sundays from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Entrance is free.