Every Sunday between 9am and 12pm during the month of May, the Petting Farm in Ta’ Qali will be hosting an interactive activity, Furry Fun Sundays. This was announced by Minister of Environment, Energy and Enterprise Miriam Dalli and Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said together with Project Green CEO Steve Ellul.

The petting farm in Ta’ Qali is spread over 4,000 square meters, giving the public an opportunity to interact with animals such as sheep, birds, rabbits, a horse, and a llama. During Furry Fun Sundays, visitors can meet and interact with these animals, while following the tasks carried out by the workers that take care of them. The event will be held on weekly basis, with interactive activities for the whole family, such as planting. Children will also be able to design their ideal garden.

Minister Miriam Dalli explained how these activities serve as an opportunity for children to get closer to nature and with animals. “We want everyone to enjoy our parks as much as possible. Through these activities we are encouraging more families in Malta and Gozo to spend more time together, in a pleasant environment, close to nature”, Minister Dalli said. The Minister for the Environment added that animals can have therapeutic benefits for children’s social, physical and emotional development.

Parliament Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said remarked the importance of how such activities will assist children to appreciate animals more. “Education and experience are the key to progress. This activity is an opportunity to educate and nurture children to care for animals and respect their daily needs”, said Parliamentary Secretary Bugeja Said. Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Rights highlighted how this activity is another opportunity for the public to live in harmony with nature.

Project Green CEO Steve Ellul explained that different open spaces have different purposes. Through such activities, these green spaces are being given a new lease of life. He added that since Milden Grove is located next to the Ta’ Qali Petting, the Furry Fun Sundays activity was purposely planned to bring animals closer to visitors. “This activity will attract more children to open spaces, giving families an opportunity to enjoy more time together”, said Steve Ellul.