An interactive, informative centre in Buskett will act as a reference point on falconry in our islands and host a rehabilitation and reintroduction programme for birds of prey.
Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia explained that the new centre will host technical workshops and educational talks to promote education on our cultural heritage and biodiversity.
The centre, a project by the Malta Falconers Club (MFC) with the support of Ambjent Malta, will provide a hands-on experience to the visitors of Buskett, as well as information on the ancient practice of falconry and the behaviour of birds of prey.
The minister reiterated that falconry is nowadays synonymous with nature conservation and management and related educational issues, as falconry techniques are widely used in conservation and rehabilitation of birds of prey - for repopulation, reinforcement, or reintroduction.
The site will serve to establish a reference site on a national level promoting the historic accounts of the practice of falconry and its strong ties to the Maltese islands during the 16th and 17th century.
The minister spoke of other sustainable effects and uses of falconry, explaining that it could minimise the negative impacts of certain human activities on natural habitats, leading to less trampling, habitat modification, or the use of pesticides for pest control. ERA had already approved a pest control pilot to be carried out in Comino, to assess the possibility of using such a system for the control of pest populations of the islands. This is seen as a more proactive approach rather than the use of chemicals or culling.
MFC will also embark on a project to rehabilitate birds of prey and reintroduce different species to the wild. “The club is also involved in pest eradication and control initiatives to support flourishing the local flora and fauna for a better ecosystem,” MFC President Lucas Micallef explained. “Most falconers around the globe have at some time been involved in the rehabilitation of sick and injured birds of prey, and eventual reintroduction programmes. By means of diverse falconry techniques, one will ensure that not only will the birds be able to fly, but they will be fit and able to hunt independently in the wild before being released,” he said.
Micallef explained that informative talks, meetings and seminars by veterinarians, ornithologists, academics, and falconers on the handling and correct welfare and keep of birds of prey will also take place, as well as technical workshops for the general public, and educational talks and scheduled visits for children and students. Bird observation activities during the migration sea and host bird of prey observation activities during the migration season.