S.L. 549.183 Art. 3Determination of reference population and small numbers. 2 [S.L.

For the purposes of these regulations, the Turtle Dove is classified as a huntable species under Part B of Annex II of the Birds

Directive. In this context, the "small numbers" requirement within the meaning of Article 9(1)(c) of the Birds Directive shall be understood as "a sample in the order of one percent (1%) of the total annual mortality of the population in question". For the purposes of these regulations, "population in question" shall be understood with regard to these migratory species, as the population of those regions within the territory of the European Union from which the main contingents passing through the region come, to which the derogation applies during its period of application.

* 1 * As detailed in the report dated March 2026 on the conservation status of the Tur-tle Dove (Streptopelia which is available on the website: https:// turtur), wbru.gov.mt/en/resources/reports-and-statistics/other-reports/. DEROGATION FOR A 2026 SPRING HUNTING SEASON 549.183] FOR TURTLE DOVE)