The hunters’ federation has described plans by BirdlifeMalta to hold an observation camp in April for Maltese and overseas bird watchers as "more provocation and foreign interference" and warned that there could be dangerous consequences.

Federation secretary Lino Farrugia in a statement said Birdlife Malta plans to hold the camp between April 14-29 so that it could, in its words, maintain a strong presence in the countryside to make sure that hunters respect the law.

Quoting from a circular issued by Birdlife, Mr Farrugia said Birdlife was saying that if Spring hunting is still allowed next year, “…then volunteers will be needed to demonstrate the impact of this hunting season by recording the extent of hunting in spring, while at the same time making sure that hunters do not target protected species".

If spring hunting is banned, the purpose of the camp will be "to monitor the countryside to record any hunting activity taking place. This will involve using both static and active observation posts to look for hunters in the countryside, reporting any illegal activity to the police authorities, recording evidence using hand-held video and still cameras, and keeping illegal hunters under observation until the police arrive at the scene".

Mr Farrugia said the Federation for Hunting & Conservation – Malta (FKNK) hopes that the Maltese police would not allow themselves to be led by some amateurs, Maltese or foreign.

"All other local authorities should seriously reflect about the dangerous consequences that may result from this confrontational plan."

In the meantime, he said the FKNK will issue "very clear and legal directives" to its members regarding their legitimate right to practice hunting and trapping; the issue of trespassing and rights of land ownership; foreign interference; data protection and the right of refusal to be filmed or photographed.