Golden eagles’ return to English skies gets government backing
Golden eagles’ return to English skies gets government backing
The UK government has committed £1 million to reintroduce golden eagles to English landscapes, aiming to make them a permanent part of the country’s natural environment by next year. This initiative follows the successful return of the species to the Scottish border, where they have been reestablished over the past eight years.
Once native to England, golden eagles were eradicated in the 19th century due to relentless hunting. Their absence was due to perceived threats to livestock and game birds, but the government now sees them as a key component of restoring biodiversity. Forestry England and the charity Restoring Upland Nature will lead the effort, with a public consultation planned to gather input from landowners and farmers.
Golden eagles are among the swiftest birds, capable of reaching speeds up to 200 mph during their dramatic dives. Their exceptional eyesight allows them to detect movement from three miles away, making them formidable hunters. However, these traits led to their near-extinction in England and Wales, as they were targeted by those fearing their impact on local ecosystems.
“The golden eagle is not only Britain’s second-largest raptor but also a keystone species that can significantly aid nature recovery,” said Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds.
Reintroduction projects, such as those for pine martens, beavers, and white-faced darter dragonflies, have been part of the UK’s broader strategy to address nature depletion. Research from 2023 found that one in six species is at risk of extinction, underscoring the urgency of such initiatives.
Forestry England’s research evaluated 28 potential sites for golden eagle populations, identifying eight as suitable based on climate, terrain, and minimal human interference. Northumberland has been selected as the primary location. “Establishing these birds in England will help control mesopredators like foxes and badgers,” explained Ed Parr Ferris, a species recovery manager at Forestry England.
Over the last eight years, 28 golden eagle chicks from the Scottish Highlands and Orkney Isles have been relocated to the border region, where they have thrived. Some of these birds have briefly ventured into England, but the study predicts a natural expansion to southern areas may take two decades without continued support.
Restoring Upland Nature (RUN), the organization behind the Scottish reestablishment, will oversee the £1 million program in England. Dr. Cat Barlow, CEO of RUN, highlighted the importance of engaging the public. “Golden eagles can spark interest in ecosystems, making nature recovery more relatable,” she said.
Yet, concerns persist. Prof Davy McCracken of Scotland’s Rural College noted that a 18-month consultation might not be sufficient. “Farmers have demanding seasonal schedules, which could limit their ability to fully engage,” he argued. William Maughan, a farmer and chair of the National Farmers Union North Regional Board, echoed this, stressing the need for thorough collaboration. “Farmers must not shoulder the risks of poorly planned projects,” he emphasized.
