The spring migration season has started, with over 60 species of birds recorded returning to the European breeding grounds in less than a fortnight.

Marsh harriers, lesser and common kestrels, the first raptors to migrate this season, along with regulars such as hoopoes and common cranes, were among the 64 species recorded since March 1, BirdLife said.

Spring is the season when Europe’s migratory birds leave their African wintering grounds and return to breed in Europe, replenishing their populations.

The highlights of the past few days were large numbers of barn swallows and house martins stopping off in Malta, BirdLife said. Simar Nature Reserve warden Charles Coleiro said: “Just yesterday a flock of 400 barn swallows and house martins roosted in the reserve. The numbers of barn swallows and house martins that have passed through the reserve these past few days is exceptional for this time of year.”

The nature reserve is open for school visits during the week and open to the public between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

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