New & now
Wildlife wonders! Rare Avocet captured on camera by talented Maltese photographer
The black and white bird that sports a particular, upturned beak

Francesca Vella

Thanks to the photos shared by local photographer John Borg, Malta can enjoy the beauty of the Avocet, a bird rarely seen on the Maltese Islands, captured on film while it presumably seeks out prey in the water.

A striking bird with its black and white plumage, the Avocet has a thin, black bill that turns upwards, giving it a unique and somewhat amusing look. To feed, it tilts forward and searches the water with its bill, capturing shrimps and other small invertebrates in estuaries and wetlands.

Being a scarce and irregular migrant bird, the few times it’s spotted locally, the Avocet is usually seen in singles or couples Ghadira Nature Reserve, although sometimes, small flocks are recorded migrating offshore.

Have you ever been lucky enough to spot an Avocet?

29th November 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.

You may also like...
New & now
New & now
Extra late-night crossings means more time to dance!

Francesca Vella
New & now
New & now
In Maltese it's known as 'Barbun Għajnejh Imbegħda'.

Francesca Vella
New & now
New & now
September's bringing cooler nights and more comfortable days.

Francesca Vella
New & now
New & now
A national record, 4 silver medals, and now the World Championships in Tokyo!

Francesca Vella
New & now
New & now
Shopping, shows & city lights are about to get a lot closer!

Francesca Vella