In March, the Federation for Hunting and Conservation – Malta (FKNK) presented its proposals for the spring season of 2024 to be discussed at the upcoming meeting of the Malta Ornis Committee. The Committee will deliberate on whether to recommend to the Minister the FKNK’s proposal for derogations allowing traditional hunting of turtle doves and quail in April 2024. Additionally, the FKNK proposes conducting research on the migration of turtle doves using traditional clap-nets for live-capturing during the same period.

These proposals, outlined in a document submitted by the FKNK, are supported by evidence of positive results regarding the sustainability of turtle dove hunting in Malta. This evidence is derived from surveys conducted during the turtle dove hunting seasons in September 2021 and 2022, as well as a scientific study undertaken during the seasons in April 2022 and 2023. The document also highlights successes achieved through the FKNK Turtle Dove Project, including progress towards expanding the project’s scope to include Bulgaria and Kosovo.

The FKNK alleged how, upon learning of the FKNK’s proposals, BirdLife Malta (BLM) swiftly prepared and submitted a report to the Malta Ornis Committee advocating for a complete year-round ban on turtle dove hunting in Malta. However, the FKNK has responded with a critique report, challenging the accuracy and intentions of BLM’s report. The FKNK argues that BLM’s efforts reflect a continued push for abolition rather than genuine conservation concerns, further suggesting a close alignment between BLM and the EU Commission.

The FKNK “Critique” can be downloaded from this link.

#MaltaDaily