Ghadira nature reserve

Ghadira lies between two hills, that of Marfa, and that of Mellieha. This implies that any rainwater runoff is guided into the lake. Since certain areas within the lake are below sea level, water is preferentially retained within the lake if it originates from these hills. Sea water is also capable of some flow into the reserve, and the resulting habitat is that of a Salt Marsh. The effects of evaporation in summer and high precipitation in winter result in a somewhat variable salt concentration.

Located besides Malta's most popular sandy beach, the wetland reserve was in the past seriously threatened by development. During the 1960s, a busy road was planned to pass right through the area, and other plans included converting the rest of the area into one extensive carpark.

The fauna at Ghadira is at least as interesting as the flora! One can easily see the Wild Rabbit, a mammal that is not common in many parts of Malta. The Weasel is also present but only in small numbers. The reptilian class is almost completely represented at Ghadira. A very notorious character, of course, is the Chameleon. This relaxed animal with its boggling flexibility and enchanting colour morphing properties has often touched the hearts of Ghadira visitors. It has proved to be, perhaps, the biggest attraction to children and adults alike!

The insect diversity varies with the season and the Lepidoteran affiliation (butterflies and moths) is but one of the most noticeable presences.

The presence of birds at Ghadira is often indicative of the season of the year. Visit Ghadira in winter and you are sure to enjoy the presence of Coots, Moorhens, Black-necked Grebes and various species of wild duck like Mallard, Shoveler, Wigeon and Shelduck.

Stonechats will zoom onto any insect within their range, White Wagtails will race across the place incessantly and Chiffchaffs simply WILL make their presence felt.

In the winter/spring interlude the number of birds might decrease, as wintering birds start to return to their breeding sites, and only the most adventurous early migrants cross the island. It is a period of great expectation where anything can turn up, and every sunrise might hold some surprise. Waders and herons soon appear in varying numbers but it is evident at this point that Ghadira has become a refill station rather than a long term residence for birds.

Summer can be rather quiet for the reserve, with resident birds such as the Corn Bunting and the Zitting Cisticola singing away, and small waders like Little Ringed Plover present in the elevated temperatures.

Autumn is a very interesting season for the reserve, bringing the first Kingfishers and many species of waders. Yellow Wagtails, and Swallows roost in the reedbeds and the first winter visitors such as the Robin start to make an appearance.