Families participate in Xemxija Easter-egg hunt

Dozens of children participated in an Easter-egg hunt and Nature Discovery Trail at Is-Simar wetland reserve in Xemxija this afternoon. The event was organised by BirdLife Malta, with the group’s Klabb Ħuttaf mascot, Ħuttafa the migrating barn swallow, also present to offer support.

The children, along with their families, were then given a tour of the wetland reserve, where children were introduced to the variety of wildlife found there in the spring. These included chameleons and Cetti’s Warblers - or Bufula ta’ l-Ghollieq - as well as various plants and flora.

“At this time of year the Simar Bird sanctuary is visited by many migrating birds, from small songbirds like Wood Warblers, to larger waders and herons, like the Night Heron, or Kwakka,” BirdLife said.

The highlight for many involved a bird-watching activity, from where Coots, or Tigiega tal-Bahar, could be seen swimming amongst the reeds, never far from their young chicks. Is-Simar is the only place in the Maltese Islands that these birds are known to breed.

“We’re very pleased to have so many children visit the reserve with their families, especially in the spring, when the wetland is so full of wildlife. We really look forward to the day when these kinds of activities in spring are not restricted to the nature reserves, but can be enjoyed throughout the Maltese countryside,” said BirdLife’s Kathleen Mamo.

Is-Simar nature reserve is one of only two wetland reserves in Malta. A protected Bird Sanctuary, it is home to a wide variety of native wildlife, including snakes, highly threatened killifish and several different birds.

“The reserve offers the perfect setting for those seeking the opportunity to enjoy Maltese wildlife up-close and in full protection,” BirdLife said.

Anyone who wants to find out more about BirdLife Malta’s activities for the public can do so by emailing [email protected]. 

Find out how you can support the campaign to protect migrating birds in Malta by visiting www.birdlifemalta.org.