The hunters' federation have condemned the shooting of a flock of greater flamingos.

The Hunters' Federation (FKNK) and St Hubert Hunters (KSU) hoped that the suspect, allegedly identified by BirdLife, would be brought to justice.

They said in a statement this afternoon that the flock of 40 birds had been sighted by several of its members in several locations along the eastern coast on October 2 and 3.

"In none of these locations where they were filmed and photographed, were any of these protected birds shot," they said

The hunters objected to BirdLife's claims of widespread illegal hunting and said that claims of birds 'probably killed', unless proven, served little purpose except to stoke hatred against all hunters without justification.

"We understand BLM's frustration at seeing protected birds shot, and we assure BLM that we share the same feelings. However, we strongly deplore their speculation about a known small problem that through our combined actions and those of the police is being steadily eradicated.

"It is only through the apprehension of these irresponsible few that such illegalities will continue to be reduced drastically."

The hunters said they were determined to intensify their efforts to see the perpetrators of atrocious acts, such as the shooting of flamingos, brought to justice.

"For this purpose we augur that there will be more co-operation between the police, BirdLife Malta, and our organisations, based on accurate reporting and sharing of information."