The closing lecture in the 2005 spring series of educational talks organised by Din l-Art Helwa will be given by Professor Mark Brincat on Thursday, 12 May at 6pm in the Judge Caruana Curran Hall at 133 Melita Street, Valletta. Prof. Brincat will trace the history of the Maltese bull and the Maltese goat and the efforts being made to save these indigenous species.

Malta has a number of indigenous species that are either facing extinction or have actually become extinct over the last couple of decades. Some of these are farm animals that are unique to these islands and have been present here for thousands of years. They are, without doubt, part of the local heritage.

The Maltese cattle and the Maltese goat are two such animals. The Maltese bull, in particular, epitomises Mediterranean culture and early man’s use of land for survival and it is also a symbol of fertility.

These species are so synonymous with our islands that it is hard to believe that they are in a very precarious state and might soon be extinct, such has been the speed of their disappearance. They represent unique genetic pools which would be the equivalent of, say, the entire temple culture disappearing irretrievably, should they become extinct.

Prof. Brincat, who is head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and a specialist in reproductive medicine in his own right, will be explaining the medical aspects of the contribution of Maltese bulls and goats to our well-being, as well as the scientific methods being employed to save the species. There are also strong cultural reasons why these animals should be looked after to ensure the continuity of their species, as well as biological ones.

As part of any academic unit’s functions depends on animal work, the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the university under Professor Brincat has, for many years, been involved in an attempt to save these animals, together with the Department of Physiology with Professor Alex Felice, whose work involves ensuring the continuity of the unique Maltese goat.

This highly illustrated lecture will explore all these aspects and will trace historical and archaeological links between the ancient animals as evidenced in Malta’s prehistoric sites and today’s surviving species.

The lecture, which is being given in English, is free of charge. Those wishing to attend are asked to be seated by 5.45pm.