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WATCH: BirdLife Malta releases healed Kestrel on Comino after rescue from gunshot wound
The Kestrel then proceeded to fly straight to Africa!

Francesca Vella

BirdLife Malta has shared a heartwarming video of a Common Kestrel being released back into the wild on Comino, after 12 days of rehabilitation following a gunshot wound sustained in Qala, Gozo.

Before its release, the female kestrel was fitted with a ring and tracking device. Upon release, it took off in a southern direction, flying over open sea toward Africa. Fully recovered, the bird completed an impressive 450 km journey in just 13 hours, reaching the Tunisian coast near Zarzis in the early hours of the following morning.

The organisation expressed gratitude to the dedicated vets, rehabilitation team, and members of the public who contributed to the bird’s recovery, enabling it to continue its migration journey.

Nature enthusiasts who wish to participate in future activities or support BirdLife Malta’s work can reach out via email at [email protected] or through their Facebook page.

Well done to everyone involved!

15th October 2024


Francesca Vella
Written by
Francesca Vella
Francesca has always felt most at home in a cinema or theatre, particularly if musicals are involved. She loves to read, write, and share about her experiences of both the fictional and the real world.

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