Help protect the Merill: nesting season guidelines for walkers and climbers
Photo: Bouke ten Cate, CC BY 4.0.
As spring nesting season approaches, walkers and outdoor enthusiasts are reminded to keep clear of cliff nests and ground-nesting areas.
With spring approaching, BirdLife Malta issues an annual reminder about protecting nesting birds, particularly Malta's national bird, the Il-Merill (Blue Rock Thrush).
The Merill nesting season
- **When**: March to June (peak: April–May) - **Nesting habitat**: Sea cliffs, quarries, old fortifications - **Threat**: Disturbance from hikers, climbers, photographers
How to help
**For walkers and outdoor enthusiasts:** - Stay at least 50 metres from active cliff nests - Avoid areas marked as bird sanctuaries - Keep dogs on leads in sensitive areas - Report any illegal trapping or shooting
**For photographers:** - Do not approach nests with cameras or drones - Never use flash photography near nesting sites - Respect BirdLife Malta's guidance on sensitive areas
**Report violations:** - Police (illegal hunting): 119 or https://pulizija.gov.mt/ - BirdLife Malta (disturbance/concern): https://birdlifemalta.org/ - ERA Malta (habitat damage): https://era.org.mt/
Why the Merill is special
The Merill is not just Malta's national bird—it's an indicator species. Protecting it means protecting cliff habitats that support countless other species. Healthy Merill populations reflect healthy coastal and valley ecosystems.