Wildlife

Wild Migratory Bird Trapping and Welfare

Illegal trapping of migratory birds, particularly in Mediterranean countries, kills or injures tens of millions of birds annually and is a significant welfare concern.

Key Facts

Malta, Cyprus, and other Mediterranean countries face significant illegal trapping issues
Limestick and mist net trapping is illegal in EU but enforcement is challenging
BirdLife International estimates 25 million birds are illegally killed or trapped annually in Mediterranean
Many trapped species are insectivores providing important ecosystem services
Campaign for the Abolition of Songbird Trapping has successfully reduced trapping in some countries

Welfare Considerations

Trapped birds suffer from capture stress, injury, and death. Limestick trapping glues birds to branches, causing prolonged suffering before death or capture. The scale of illegal trapping - millions of birds per year - represents an enormous welfare crisis that requires both enforcement and cultural change.

What You Can Do

Support BirdLife International's campaigns against illegal bird trapping
Report illegal bird trapping to authorities when witnessed
Advocate for stronger EU enforcement of existing legislation against trapping