The hunters’ federation, FKNK, yesterday gave a breakdown of the members it has in each electoral district, numbering 17,816 in all. The largest number, 3,008, are in Gozo, excluding Ghajnsielem, the figures it gave show. It is followed by the seventh district (Zebbug, Dingli, Mgarr, Mtarfa, Rabat) with 2,460.

The FKNK did not explain why it was releasing the figures but it has in the past boasted about its numerical strength, implying it can influence electoral outcomes.

The membership it gave, it added, excluded family members, relatives and friends and did not include either trappers who did not have a licence, numbering some 4,000 in all.