Consular Warden Messages

Warden Message: Spring Hunting Season
February 25, 2008

This warden message is being issued to inform American citizens of ongoing tension between birdwatchers and hunters related to the spring hunting season in Malta.

Since joining the European Union in 2004, Malta has enacted measures to bring bird hunting activities in line with existing EU directives.  These measures have often been met with opposition by individual hunters and hunting advocacy groups.  In early February, Malta was referred to the European Court of Justice, which is seeking to enforce compliance with EU directives before the start of the spring hunting season in April.

Tension between birdwatchers and hunters has increased in recent weeks, and birdwatchers have been the targets of several criminal acts, including assault/battery, vandalism, and property damage.  These acts are often well-planned and designed to threaten and intimidate.  According to media reports, some hunters have even shot at and, in some cases, injured birdwatchers and conservation activists.

Until further notice, the U.S. Embassy recommends that American citizens refrain from bird watching and attending anti-hunting events.  Try to avoid areas common to hunters and trappers (often indicated by signs stating "RTO").  Avoid walking through nets or close to the caged birds that trappers often place on walls and fences as decoys.  Walking or hiking in the countryside may increase the possibility of being mistaken for a birdwatcher.

For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov.  The U.S. Embassy in Malta also maintains a website at http://malta.usembassy.gov.

In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  You may also contact the U.S. Embassy in Malta at (+356) 2561-4000 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. local time.