Poachers shot a hoopoe and injured it in the second incident of illegality since the start of the hunting autumn season, the Committee Against Bird Slaughter said.

It said the injured bird was found on a countryside road close to Fawwara yesterday morning.

CABS already reported that a short-toed eagle was shot down at the southern end of the Dingli cliffs. It condemned the incidents and noted these were the only instances of illegal shooting observed by its teams since the start of the season on September 1.

“Compared to previous seasons, the situation seems to be much more under control”, press officer Axel Hirschfeld said.

CABS said the hoopoe was immediately taken to a vet who confirmed it was shot.

CABS reported that a short-toed eagle was shot down at the southern end of the Dingli cliffs

Hoopoes are birds of conservation concern with populations declining in nearly all EU states, CABS said.

The species is notable for its colourful plumage and distinctive crown of feathers that makes it a highly coveted trophy among collectors and taxidermists.

CABS said that it had reported cases of illegal bird trapping to the police.

These involved an illegal turtle dove cage trap in Selmun, an active clap net in Siġġiewi and a cage with unringed finches in Burmarrad.

Three greenfinches and a siskin were also confiscated by the police administrative law enforcement unit.