Illegal hunting and trapping is still the islands’ biggest conservation challenge, according to Birdlife Malta’s new executive director Steve Micklewright.

One of my priorities will be to build on the fantastic work Birdlife Malta does in involving children with nature

“After 50 years, this will remain our number one priority,” said the Brit, whose appointment was announced this week.

Mr Micklewright, 50, has worked for environmental organisations for more than 20 years and has been an active campaigner.

While working at WWF, Mr Micklewright coordinated campaigns about marine protection and endangered species.

He also led the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England’s work to prevent the mass sale of government forests.

This year Mr Micklewright was awarded the Lord Mayor’s Medal in his native Bristol for services to the community after his successful efforts to protect woodland from development.

Highlighting his work encouraging children in Bristol to feel a connection with nature, Mr Micklewright said: “One of my priorities will be to build on the fantastic work Birdlife Malta does in involving children with nature.”

The new executive director, who fills the vacancy left by Paul Debono, studied botany and zoology at the University of Bristol and has a Master’s degree in conservation and ecology from University College London.

“As an ecologist, I understand the importance of sound research in helping to make decisions about the natural environment. I am delighted to see this is an approach that Birdlife Malta takes,” he said.