The thrill of making a discovery or finding a ‘treasure’ attracted over 200 children to Simar Nature Reserve on Saturday, where Birdlife Malta held one of its most anticipated events.

At Simar on Saturday children crafted their own bird nest and coloured pictures. Photos: Jonathan Borg

Easter EggCitement combined traditional egg hunts with nature-related activities for the very young up to adolescents. Four egg hunts were held for children aged three to eight and another four were reserved for those between nine and 12 years old.

All children and accompanying parents also had the opportunity to watch a bird-ringing activity and learn how this conservation tool gives the NGO insight into the different lives of birds. 

Visitors were invited to do some birdwatching and learn why birds migrate.

Children could experiment with crafting their own bird nest or colour pictures in an olive grove.

Simar Nature Reserve, which takes its name from the sharp rush (is-simar in Maltese) that is regenerating in the reserve, provides a safe haven for both resident and migrating birds.

The nature reserve in Xemxija is made up of different habitats, including open pools, reed beds and trees. 

EggCitement combines traditional egg hunts with nature-related activities

One can admire aquatic birds like herons, rails and kingfishers, which are attracted to the pools, and the rare and protected Mediterranean killifish and species of rare-tassel weed.

Walking around the trail, one can also come across Mediterranean chameleons and geckos camouflaged on the branches of the hundreds of trees planted in the area.

Simar is a fully protected bird sanctuary, a Ramsar site and a special area of conservation within the EU Natura 2000 network. It is open between November and May on Tuesdays and Fridays from 2 to 7pm and on Sundays from 10am to 4pm. 

Entrance to the reserve is free of charge but donations are welcome.