A general survey on the breeding of finches in Malta and Gozo is being held by the Institute of Agriculture of the University of Malta, which said that the breeding of bird species that form part of the Maltese fauna – if organised and supervised properly – was a potentially useful activity that could have a role in any scheme to introduce such species in Maltese habitats.

There is a well-documented connection between farming practices and the natural environment, with birds being important indicators of the state of the environment. For this reason, the Institute of Agriculture is dedicating more resources to Maltese ornithology within a wider context of agro-ecosystem management. The institute said the aim of the survey being undertaken was to establish how widespread the breeding of finches was and how many birds were involved. It would also help to identify any particular technical problems especially associated with the well-being of the individual animals and the efficiency of the breeding

systems.

The survey will be held by means of individual questionnaires distributed to all those who keep finches and will not be based on a statistical sample. Meetings for bird fanciers are being held in various areas in connection with this survey and all individuals and associations interested are urged to contact the Institute of Agriculture on tel. 2340-2322 or 7949-3668 for

further information.