I refer to the article Little Egrets’ first recorded nest in Malta (TMID, 29 August).

It is a delight to hear that the egrets nested. I was watching these four egrets since as early as mid-April. The last time I saw them was in June. I also took photos of them from across the road.

I fully agree with Dr Raine, that “additional law enforcement officers would enable a stronger and more effective control of illegal hunting, which could lead to the resurgence of breeding species in Malta”. I would also like to add that an even shorter spring hunting season could also do the trick.

What I disagree with is the last statement by Dr Raine where he said that “the Barn Owl, which bred regularly in Malta in the past, but which no longer does as a result of illegal hunting”.

Unfortunately Dr Raine may not have been on the island long enough to know every past issue related to bird conservation, but I remember an avid bird enthusiast from Mosta, now deceased, telling me that the last nesting Barn Owl was obliterated from Mosta to make way for a stone and concrete building.

Regrettably, Malta lacks the open space other countries enjoy. Although the recent development restraints are applauded, construction never helps bird conservation. I remember the whole of Bugibba and Qawra, when seen from Wardija, as a huge plain of arable land and trees; now it’s just a concrete mass. Luckily the construction stopped just before overwhelming Salina, so the egrets and other aquatic birds can rest. I sincerely hope it stays that way.

Nyal Xuereb

Gharghur