S.L. 549.120 Art. 5Designation of National Species.

The competent authority may designate further National

Species, provided that such species are in line with one or more of the following criteria:

(a) wild species native to Malta or are representative of the Maltese flora and fauna; or

(b) wild species endemic to the Maltese Islands and its waters; or

(c) species of particular importance because of their scientific, ecological, biodiversity, biogeographical, landscape or educational interest; or

(d) species with specific cultural or historical connection with Malta and its identity; or

(e) threatened, rare and possibly extinct species, particularly species with a restricted distribution in Malta; or

(f) charismatic species that serve as a symbol or focus point to raise environmental awareness and consciousness and can be employed as flagship species; or

(g) species with the potential to enhance acceptance of habitat preservation or capable of favourably influencing attitudes towards environment conservation and management; or

(h) species which in the competent authority’s opinion contain similarly relevant criteria.