Spring Watch 2020 Volunteer

We are seeking volunteers to join us in the countryside during our Spring Watch 2020 monitoring operations.

We are currently planning our annual Spring Watch operations, and are on the lookout for volunteers who wish to help us with our ongoing battle against spring hunting.

The spring hunting season is controversial as birds are killed during their journey to their breeding grounds in northern Europe, thus depriving them of the chance to boost population numbers.

Whilst only the Common Quail is legal to shoot, many other protected species fall victim to illegal killing. One of the most highly sought after species, the vulnerable Turtle Dove, was legal to shoot in the spring up until 2016 when a moratorium was put in place, in a bid to increase populations again. Malta serves as a critical resting place for migratory birds, and our aim is to ensure that as many birds as possible get to continue their migrations safely. Spring Watch involves long days in the field, trying to gather evidence of any illegalities which can then be passed onto the authorities for further investigation. Good bird ID skills are useful but not essential.

Please note that spaces are limited in the accommodation we will use, so contact us before booking anything. All costs are covered by volunteers as well – please check with us beforehand regarding costs, as we will be able to advise you on the accommodation and food prices. For any queries, please email us at alice.tribe@birdlifemalta.org.