The controversial finch trapping season is expected be reopened in autumn following a recommendation by the Ornis Committee, the consultative body on hunting regulations.

With five votes in favour, one against and one abstention, the committee agreed to permit the limited live-capture of seven species of finches in autumn 2015.

Despite being supported by the government, trapping is banned in the EU. Malta has already received two formal warnings from the European Commission, and the possibility of being taken to the European Court of Justice looms. Malta was granted a five-year grace period in which to phase out the practice of finch trapping after it joined the EU in 2004.

Aerial survey flights conducted by the Committee Against Bird Slaughter in March had revealed what appears to be a massive increase in illegal finch trapping in spring.