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maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 3 MARCH 2021
NEWS
cons have a very important role in keep-
ing a balance in our ecosystem. But since
the diet of birds of prey is mainly carcass-
es, we often see the tragic consequences
of these birds having consumed poisoned
animals," Micallef said. "These incidents
are heartbreaking, but serve as further
motivation for us to continue educating
through falconry."
But they are not for naught. Micallef
said that due to recent increase in aware-
ness, the population of birds of prey is on
the increase. This shows that the strategy
is working. Since 2009, Malta also saw the
return of the peregrine falcon, for the first
time in decades.
"We were glad to highlight the return of
the peregrine falcon that has successfully
bred in the wild on the Maltese islands in
recent years. In 2015 a pair of peregrine
falcons was observed breeding on the
Maltese Islands," he said. "Since then,
another two pairs bred on Ta' Ċenċ cliffs
on Comino. This strengthens our resolve
to continue raising awareness of these
occurrences to further safeguard these
magnificent species."
And thanks to the effort of dedicated
people like Marco, Lucas, and many oth-
ers, peregrines now breed regularly on
our islands.
Falconer Marco Aquilina
Malta Falconers Club (MFC)
President Lucas Micallef
