BirdLife Malta’s events and activities committee will be organising a nature walk on February 18 in Mtaħleb, a rural region between Dingli and Mġarr in the limits of Rabat.

The walk features beautiful countryside and spectacular scenic views of the west coast of Malta.

The Mtaħleb area includes two valleys which are characterised by springs that lead to the formation of riparian formations as well as maquis communities.

Among the population of trees in the area one can find large Mediterranean willow trees (żafżafa żgħira), a good population of the white poplar tree (luq), together with black mulberry trees (tut), white mulberry trees (ċawsli), bay laurel (rand) and an old copse of olive trees (żebbuġ).

One very old individual jujube tree (żinżel) merits protection due to its age and rarity.

Mtaħleb also has a tree protected area which has been protected since 1996, and is a Natura 2000 site; an area of ecological importance; a nature reserve; and a special area of conservation of international importance.

The meeting point will be at the Baħrija playing field at 9am sharp. This is a moderate/hard walk (approximately five kilometres) suitable for adults. Participation is open to all. Booking will be open until next Sunday. Visit birdlifemalta.org and send an e-mail to activities@birdlifemalta.org to confirm booking as soon as you have carried out the payment successfully.