Unknown person/s have vandalized trees at the Miżieb hunting and trapping reserve, the hunters' federation (FKNK) said.

The vandalized trees were discovered last Sunday, when FKNK members went to check and clean the place following the usual week-end barbeques, picnics and other activities.

"It is very true that we have been experiencing an unusualyl cold spell and that utility rates have taken a price hike, however this does not justify the felling of trees or cutting of branches to be used as fire-wood in fireplaces or stoves, which was why such acts have probably been committed," the federation said.

The Miżieb Reserve has been managed by the Federation for Hunting & Conservation - Malta since 1986. The federation said the site was at the time nothing more than an overgrown dump, but thousands of trees were planted over the years.

The federation said its members prune the trees and regularly clean the area. They have also appointed special areas where the public can relax, organize barbeques and picnics.