The FKNK hunters’ federation in a report on the Spring hunting derogation, said it was satisfied that the conditions of the derogation were observed, and that the overwhelming majority of the licensed hunters behaved 'in an exemplary manner'.

The federation said it had monitored, on a first-hand basis, the situation on the ground.

In an executive summary of its report on the derogation, it said it was also very pleased that the specific conditions of the delicate issue regarding the exercising of ‘strict control’ were observed.

The federation added that it disagreed with certain impositions of the derogation that were not required by the Birds Directive.

“The FKNK, through its membership with FACE (The Federation of Associations for Hunting & Conservation in the EU), will accordingly continue to seek redress on those vexatious issues, and also with FACE’s support, and the new Malta government, will endeavour to build a stronger position on the successes attained this spring as detailed in the report."

The derogation allowed limited hunting of turtle doves and quails on the for 160 hours, on and between April 10 and 30. 

About 9,500 hunters made use of the relative special licence.