When I published my first blog post, Welcome to My Photography Journey, I described photography as a way of slowing down, observing nature, and appreciating moments that often go unnoticed.
Over the past few months, that journey has continued to take me to some of my favourite locations across Malta and Gozo, including Salina Nature Reserve, Simar Nature Reserve, Buskett Woodlands, Wied il-Għasri, and the spectacular cliffs of Ta’ Ċenċ.
I chose not to include every image added to the website, as I wanted to avoid repeating content already featured in the original launch. A few species do appear again, either because I was fortunate enough to capture stronger photographs or because they help tell the continuing story of my visits. Each outing has provided new opportunities to learn, improve my skills, and photograph wildlife in its natural environment.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been discovering just how much biodiversity can be found within such a small group of islands. From elegant herons stalking the wetlands to birds of prey passing overhead during autumn migration, every visit has offered something memorable.
Salina Nature Reserve
Salina continues to be one of the most rewarding locations for wildlife photography. During recent visits, I was fortunate to photograph several species that have become highlights of my collection.
Among them were the majestic Grey Heron and Purple Heron, both displaying the grace and patience for which these wetland hunters are known. The reserve also provided excellent opportunities to photograph Great Cormorants, Little Egrets, Black-winged Stilts, Gull-billed Terns, Common Sandpipers, and the brilliantly coloured Common Kingfisher.
Not all the subjects had feathers. Salina also produced encounters with the vibrant Violet Dropwing Dragonfly and the striking Lobed Argiope Spider, both reminders that fascinating wildlife can be found in every corner of the reserve.
Simar Nature Reserve
Simar offered a different but equally rewarding experience. Here I photographed the delicate Willow Warbler, a small migrant pausing in Malta during its long journey. Another welcome sighting was the Cattle Egret, a species that has become increasingly familiar within the Maltese landscape.
The reserve remains one of the best places to observe migrating birds at close range while enjoying the tranquillity of a protected wetland habitat.
Buskett and the Autumn Migration
Autumn migration brought some particularly exciting opportunities at Buskett Woodlands.
Among the highlights were several birds of prey, including the European Honey-buzzard, Eurasian Hobby, Common Kestrel, and the impressive Lesser Spotted Eagle.
Photographing raptors in flight is always challenging, but it is precisely that challenge that makes each successful image especially rewarding. Watching these birds pass over Malta on their migratory journey is a reminder of the islands’ importance as a stepping stone between Europe and Africa.
Exploring Gozo
Gozo also contributed some memorable additions to the collection.
At Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, I photographed Scopoli’s Shearwater, a species closely associated with Malta’s coastal cliffs and surrounding seas. Observing these seabirds gliding effortlessly along the cliff faces was an unforgettable experience.
Another highlight was photographing the Blue Rock Thrush at Wied il-Għasri. As Malta’s national bird, the Merill holds a special place in our natural heritage, and capturing it against the dramatic Gozitan landscape made the encounter particularly rewarding.
Looking Ahead
Every photograph tells a story of patience, observation, and often a little luck. While the image may be the final result, the real reward comes from spending time in nature and experiencing these encounters firsthand.
The collection, which can be viewed in the Wildlife – Maltese Islands section of this website, continues to grow with every visit to Malta’s wetlands, woodlands, valleys, and coastline. I look forward to discovering new species, improving my photography, and sharing future highlights here on the website.
Thank you for following my journey. I hope these images encourage others to appreciate the remarkable wildlife that can be found across Malta and Gozo.
David Caruana
October 2026