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64 bird species passed over Malta in the past week
BirdLife Malta has recorded at least 64 species of birds since the beginning of March, which shows the spring season have begun and 64 species have started their return migration to their European breeding grounds over Malta.
Amongst the birds recorded were Marsh Harriers (Bagħadan Aħmar), Lesser and Common Kestrels (Spanjulett Sekond u Spanjulett).
These are the first raptors to migrate back to European breeding grounds over Malta this season. Spring regulars such as Hoopoes (Daqquqa tat-Topu) have been recorded as well as Spoonbills (Paletti), and Common Cranes (Graw), scarce migrants for Malta which have been recorded in exceptional numbers.
Amongst the highlights of the past few days have been large numbers of Barn Swallows (Ħuttaf) and House Martins (Ħawwief) stopping off in Malta to feed and regain their strength before continuing their migration.
Europe’s migratory birds leave their African wintering grounds in spring and return to breed in Europe. Through bird migration Malta has been linked to 36 European countries.
Charles Coleiro, Simar Nature Reserve warden, said “Just yesterday a flock of 400 Barn Swallows and House Martins roosted in the Simar Nature Reserve. The numbers of these two species that have passed through the reserve these past few days is exceptional for this time of year.”
BirdLife Malta invites the public to visit the Ghadira nature reserve in Mellieha and Simar nature reserve in Xemxjia to appreciate bird migration in spring. The two nature reserve are open to school visits during the week, while on weekends they are open to the public between 10am and 4pm.
