Malta’s two wetland bird reserves, Għadira and Simar, are open to visitors again. Both open in September and close at the end of May.
BirdLife Malta runs both, along with a third reserve at Salina. Entry to all three is free, and donations are welcome.
Għadira Nature Reserve, Mellieħa
Għadira sits behind Għadira Bay, on the road from Mellieħa to Ċirkewwa. It covers seven hectares of brackish lake and saltmarsh.
BirdLife says about 140 species of migrating birds are seen there each year. In winter, kingfishers, little grebes and water rails are among the birds seen from its photography hide.
Opening times until the end of May:
- Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 13:30 to 17:00
- Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 to 16:00
There is parking on site. The bus stop is called Għadira, on routes 37, 41, 42, 221, 222 and X1.
Simar Nature Reserve, Xemxija
Simar lies at the bottom of the Pwales valley in Xemxija, on Triq il-Pwales. It is a network of pools, reed beds and trees, restored by BirdLife from 1992.
BirdLife says it is the only place in the Maltese Islands where coots and little grebes breed.
Opening times until the end of May:
- Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 13:30 to 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 to 16:00
Simar is closed on Saturdays, unlike Għadira. The bus stops are Roti and Simar, on routes 41, 42, 221, 222 and X1.
Salina Nature Reserve
Salina, by the old salt pans in Salina Bay, is open every day of the year. From October to March the hours are 07:00 to 18:00.
Before you go
Both Għadira and Simar close on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
Smoking is not allowed, and pets cannot come in. Volunteers on site help people who are new to birdwatching.
Photographers can book a slot in the hides at Għadira and Simar through BirdLife Malta.
Schools can book visits too. More free places to walk are on the outdoors page.
