Autumn Trapping Seasons and Songbird Research Period to Open in October and November

17 October 2026, 13:02

The government has confirmed the dates for the upcoming autumn trapping seasons, alongside the launch of this year's songbird research period. The announcement establishes the regulatory calendar for autumn bird-capturing activities across the Maltese Islands.

Under the published schedule, trapping for song thrush and golden plover will take place during designated intervals spanning October and November. Both seasons operate under specific national framework legislation establishing authorised hunting and trapping conditions.

In parallel with the traditional trapping framework, authorities have scheduled the commencement of the research period dedicated to seven wild finch species. This initiative permits trappers to catch and release specific finches using live decoys and clap nets to gather data on bird migration.

The research derogation allows licensed participants to document the migration of seven species: chaffinch, linnet, greenfinch, goldfinch, serin, hawfinch, and siskin. Under the rules of the scheme, captured finches must be fitted with rings or checked for existing rings before being promptly released back into the wild.

The finch research framework remains a subject of ongoing scrutiny under European Union environmental legislation. While national authorities maintain that the derogation serves a legitimate scientific purpose under the EU Birds Directive, conservation organisations have historically contested the programme's compliance with conservation standards.

All trappers participating in the autumn seasons are legally required to hold valid special licences and carry out their activities exclusively on registered trapping sites. Enforcement authorities, including the Police Force and environmental officers, are tasked with monitoring compliance across the countryside.