BirdLife Malta and Birdwatching on the Maltese Islands

If you’re thinking of doing some birdwatching in Malta, BirdLife Malta is your best point of contact. There are only some 12 bird species which are permanent residents on the Maltese islands.

However, the Maltese islands see many breeding colonies of seabirds, such as storm-petrels and Cory’s shearwaters.

Malta’s location also plays an important role as regards to birdwatching.

The islands are located in an important migration route between Africa and Europe. During the months of April and May and from September till November, one can see countless numbers of Eurasian migratory birds crossing the Mediterranean and stopping on the Maltese islands.

BirdLife Malta

Perhaps the most popular one is the Ghadira Natural Reserve which is located right opposite Mellieha Bay.

The other one is not too far off. It’s located in Xemxija and is called the Is-Simar Nature Reserve.

Is-Simar Reserve attracts migrating waterbirds and is also home to nesting reed warblers. The reserve is open on Sundays, from November till May. Opening hours are from 10.00 am till 4.00 pm. Entrance is free.

The Ghadira Natural Reserve located at Mellieha Bay is a popular resting spot for water birds too. Volunteers from the organization guide visitors to strategic locations where you can watch resident birds such as moorhens and coots. In winter, you can also see kingfishers, warblers, robins and finches.

This reserve is open on Saturdays and Sundays from November till May. Opening hours are from 10.00 am till 4.00 pm and entrance is free.

The organization organizes an annual Raptor Camp which is held every April and September for 3 weeks. Participation for these camps is free.

The month of September is said to be the most rewarding for birdwatching, since many birds of prey descend on the Buskett area.

For some stunning photos of birds which you can see in Malta, as well as more information on BirdLife Malta and what it does to achieve protection of wild birds, natural habitat and biodiversity on the Maltese islands, visit their website here.

If you like walking and hiking, the Maltese Islands offer various scenic walks for all fitness levels. Visit our Walking in Malta section for advice and tips on the best walking routes on the islands.

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