BirdLife, multiple government agencies strived to save griffon vulture’s life

‘Maximus’ the griffon vulture has passed away and hunting federation FKNK is blaming BirdLife Malta for its death.

“The FKNK notes, that, without fail, any bird that is collected by BLM or given to BLM for any necessary rehabilitation so that the bird can eventually be released back into the wild, is either killed by BLM themselves or just dies,” the FKNK alleged.

“BirdLife Malta should have been aware that the vulture was not yet strong enough to be sent to Sicily for eventual release.  However, it seems, that what matters is that BirdLife Malta, are ensured all the necessary prominent relative media coverage.  Therefore, now, when it appears that the bird may have died due to BLM's negligence, the same media sources should not be silent, but publicise the cause and responsibility of the bird's death with the same prominent coverage.”

The FKNK added: “This incident proves beyond a reasonable doubt that birds' protection is of no concern for BirdLife Malta, who only seem interested in taking all the advantage from such incidents to obtain popularity in the media and gather further financial contributions along the way of such drama performances.”         

In a reaction, BirdLife Malta said it worked with the bird after it was asked to assist by the Government.

Maximus was rescued at the Malta Freeport where it was stranded on a crane after arriving in Malta on a cargo ship.


Various entities including the Wild Birds Regulation Unit (WBRU), the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), the Administrative Law Enforcement (ALE) unit, the Veterinary Section and Freeport workers were involved to try and save this bird’s life.

“BirdLife Malta declares that it has always been, and will continue to remain, working hard to safeguard nature and birds for the common good.
It is high time that the hunters’ federation starts to seek common ground for collaboration rather than wasting time continuously in creating conflicts,” BirdLife Malta said.