Following reports in the local media revealing the alleged shooting down of a peregrine falcon, one half of a rare breeding pair in Malta, Alternattiva Demokratika strongly condemned the act in a statement.

Simon Galea, spokesperson on Animal Welfare and Agriculture, commented: “Our natural heritage is there to be enjoyed by all and protected for future generations yet to come. Apart from better enforcement, AD calls upon all stakeholders to work in favour of curbing such abuses. The general public, be it birdwatchers or hunters, is being robbed of its right to enjoy such attractions hence the need for anyone who can help in the investigation to step forward. It is also the hunters’ responsibility to disassociate themselves from poachers. AD calls for all hunters’ societies to better educate their members and expel any of its members caught hunting illegally."