An African spoonbill was shot dead after it escaped from a private bird sanctuary and a Mosta hunter is expected to be arraigned in connection with the incident.

Kevin Mallia is believed to have seen the rare bird being shot yesterday morning after it flew beyond his bird sanctuary in Burmarrad on Monday, sources said. The alleged hunter was soon held by the police, who were in the whereabouts, and was taken for questioning.

Mr Mallia said an African spoonbill similar to the one that was shot would cost about €2,500.

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