Ghadira Nature Reserve

Malta's only lake

Ghadira Nature Reserve is Malta's only nature reserve with a natural freshwater body. Located behind Mellieha Bay in the island's north, the reserve covers about 6 hectares of coastal wetlands and a pool that fills with rainwater in winter and dries in summer (a typical seasonal Mediterranean body of water).

A birdwatcher's paradise

Ghadira lies on the bird migration route between Europe and Africa. In spring and autumn, over 200 bird species visit the reserve, including herons, flamingos, short-eared owls, and rare wader species. It is the only place in Malta where birds can be observed in a natural wetland habitat.

BirdLife Malta

The reserve is managed by BirdLife Malta, a conservation organisation fighting illegal bird hunting (a serious problem in Malta). An observation point with binoculars and guides is open to the public in season (October-May). Volunteers help identify species.

Practical tip: Open October-May, Saturdays and Sundays (check hours at birdlifemalta.org). Free entry, binoculars provided. Best time is October-November (autumn migration) and March-April (spring). Mellieha Bay is 5 minutes' walk.