Martin Xuereb must have misunderstood the comments in my letter, which had the intention of bringing together FKNK and Birdlife. It is a fact that we law-abiding hunters refer to the poachers as our enemy number one. My comments were directed only at curbing illegal hunting activity.

Of course, I do not expect any amalgamation between the two NGOs insofar as spring hunting is concerned. Neither do I expect it on other hunting issues because they could never make a contribution when their expectations are so vastly far apart. However, in terms of fighting illegal hunting activity, I feel they have a lot in common and both have a lot to contribute.

The recent incident concerning the shot short-toed eagles is proof enough that, with the cooperation of the hunters’ federation, Birdlife and the law enforcement unit, culprits can be made to pay for their ego satisfaction. It is good to note that FKNK action goes much further than the penalty given by the courts. Such action is welcomed by the law-abiding hunter who is the worst off due to the behaviour of irresponsible poachers.

Otherwise, amalgamation of the two NGOs is next to impossible, I would agree.