One is referred to by first name followed by family nickname. A person may be specifically referred to by the definite article plus the nickname. Nicknames that describe a personality trait are the most expressive. No wonder some Maltese become paranoid about their nicknames. And there is no way one can get rid of one's nickname.
Many nicknames derive from names of animals.
These nicknames provide insight in the psycho-social dimensions of language. A quarter million Maltese coexist closely with limited animal resources. Maltese prize their animals but some islanders are notorious for trapping or shooting migratory birds. He says he endures it as a purgatorial penance. Entire towns and villages are given nicknames.