An Introduction to the Għadira Nature Reserve

Abstract

The Ghadira Nature Reserve, which covers approximately six hectares, lies roughly 100 metres inland from the water's edge at Mellieha Bay, while on the opposite side (to the west) the sea at ic-Cumnija, a rugged rocky coast, is about one km distant. On mid-sixteenth century maps the site is indicated as Saline and in fact at that time the area was one of the main producers of salt in Malta. With the building of the salt-pans at Qawra, the Ghadira area started to be indicated on the maps as Saline Vechie or Saline Vecchie. After a number of years of being unused as salt-pans the area was gradually being covered by soil carried down during the rainy season mainly from the extensive northern hill side. When Ghadira started to emerge as a site of natural scientific importance it consisted mainly of a clayey depression, dry in summer but flooded during the winter months, surrounded by a salt marshy plant community. This 'oasis' in the midst of a comparatively arid limestone environment, lying at sea level, and bounded by some cultivated fields and a rocky karstic area, provided a diversity of microhabitats quite rich in flora and fauna and an ideal spot for migratory birds.