Some 50 turtle doves that were captive bred and closed-ringed by hunters were this morning released into the wild in a symbolic gesture at Buskett gardens.

The activity, which coincided with Mnarja festivities, was held to give something back to nature as compensation for spring hunting, the president of the Hunters’ Federation (FKNK),  Joe Perici Calascione said.

The turtle doves were released mostly by children, amid applause.

A similar activities was held in Mizieb last month, when almost 100 turtle dove were released.

It is hoped that a similar activity will be held next year, Mr Perici Calascione said.

Federation officials were this morning among the judges in the hunting dog section during the Mnarja show. The federation’s education commission also had a stand in the show.