The governemnt has given the go-ahead for the Spring hunting season, subject to the outcome of the referendum. It follows a recommendation by the Ornis committee.

In a statement, the government said that the spring hunting season for Turtle Dove and Quail opens on Tuesday April 14 and closes on Thursday April 30. However, the opening of the season is subject to the outcome of the abrogative referendum which will be held on April 11.

Eligible licensed hunters holding a hunting Carnet de Chasse for 2015/2016 wishing to obtain a Special Spring Hunting licence may apply at any Maltapost branch in Malta and Gozo during branch opening hours, between Monday March 23 and Saturday March 28, both dates included.

Applicants will be required to present their Identity Card and a valid hunting Carnet de Chasse (February 2015 to January 2016) booklet, duly stamped by the Police and a hunting organisation, with their application. They will be required to register a mobile phone number to be used for catch reporting purposes. Persons applying on behalf of a licensed hunter will be requested to present their ID card.

This non-transferrable Special Licence, which is conditional on the outcome of the referendum, only permits the hunting of Turtle Dove and Quail, and no other species.

The national hunting bag limit  has been established at 11,000 Turtle Doves and 5,000 Quail. Hunters are not to exceed the daily bag limit of two birds and a seasonal bag limit of four birds per hunter. They will be required to report their catch by calling the telephone number specified in the Special Licence and follow instructions given through voice prompts.

Hunters are also legally required to declare every time they go out hunting or upon making a catch on Carnet de Chasse before leaving the hunting area.

Hunting will only be permitted during the dates of the season from two hours before sunrise until 2pm between Monday and Friday and on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays from two hours before sunrise until noon.

Compliance with the relevant provisions of national legislation will be closely monitored and supervised. Infringements will not be tolerated and convicted offenders will face the increased penalties stipulated in law.