Raptor Camp diary, Malta

A two-week programme known as "Raptor Camp" has been organised by Birdlife Malta, the RSPB's partner on the Mediterranean island. Birdwatchers from all over Europe have come to assess the population of migrating birds and to witness and record the levels of illegal hunting. Birdlife Malta says this has been the worst season for illegal hunting in Malta in recent years, and have reported intimidation and abuse from hunters. Gerry Keyworth kept a diary
Honey buzzard handed in to BirdLife Malta
A honey buzzard handed in to BirdLife Malta. Photograph: Grahame Madge/RSPB RSPB/PR

Thursday September 18: The weather held and spectacular flocks of migrating birds came in. The day was ruined when the police hand over a fatally injured honey buzzard.

Friday September 19: The sky was heavy with raptors, but with so many birds there was also a lot of illegal shooting. Our team saw an osprey losing altitude after getting shot.

Saturday September 20: A honey buzzard was shot down at Girgenti and the police were called. A marsh harrier with a shattered leg and a serious wing injury was recovered from the Ghadira nature reserve.

Sunday September 21: The morning team in the protected area of Buskett saw an injured marsh harrier in the reeds.

Monday September 22: A lot of abuse was hurled at the team. A fridge with obscenities spray painted on its surface was found. Several Raptor Camp cars had punctures as a result of nails left on sites used by the teams.

Tuesday September 23: A flock of 12 black stork was sighted. The alarm was immediately raised as this is a species which poachers prize and yesterday one our teams witness one being shot down. Two police vehicles followed the storks to prevent them being killed, but later there were reports that five were shot down.

 Gerry Keyworth is a Birdlife Malta volunteer and retired RAF officer