Several Members of European Parliament are demanding the European Commission to take action following currently observed illegal hunting activities and structural breaches of the EU Birds Directive in Malta during this years’ spring hunting season.

The MEPs expressed their concerns about the widespread illegal use of electronic bird callers and clap nets. They were equally astounded by the fact that several protected bird species, like the marsh harrier and the hoopoe, have been gunned down illegally during the past two weeks.

Dutch MEP Anja Hazekamp, who visited Malta during the start of this years’ hunting season commented: “Malta is an exceptionally beautiful Mediterranean island. The island would be even prettier if spring hunting would be prohibited for once and for all. ”

The MEPs have submitted their requests to the European Commission by means of written questions.