Arnold Sciberras and Michael Sammut write:

We are still unable to believe our colleague and friend has passed away in the prime of his life.

John Azzopardi (1952-2010) was an active ornithologist, who had an avant-garde and unique understanding of the subject. His drive and meticulous approach for research were second to none and he was an inspiration to anyone lucky enough to have worked with him.

He was an active member, having been secretary and chairman of the youth section of the Ornithological Society of Malta (now Birdlife Malta) and editor of L-Għasfur magazine (1972-1977).

He was also an assistant secretary of the scientific journal Il-Merill (1979), editor of Bird’s Eye View magazine (1977-1979) and chairman of the International Council of Bird Preservation Malta section (1976-1979).

He also contributed to several scientific works regarding ornithology. His major publication was a Maltese book on the breeding birds of Malta with Alfred E. Baldacchino in 2007; a landmark in Maltese ornithology.

Professionally, John was a senior manager at HSBC. He also had interesting projects and visions for the future and we spent lengthy hours discussing them and enjoying each other’s company, which today we miss so much.

Above all, he was a true friend and an inspiration for future generations. His dream was to reintroduce the breeding of birds we have lost through the years.

We hope this man’s works and motives do not die with him but remain an inspiration and guideline to all naturalists.