Golden Eagles to return to South Scotland
Written by author on August 14, 2015
Golden eagles taken from nests in the Highlands and Islands may be released in southern Scotland.
BBC Scotland has learned the first releases could take place as early as next summer subject to checks and consultations.
The golden eagle is a symbol of the Highlands but scientists say it should be equally at home further south.
There are no more than four breeding pairs there and the birds have had limited nesting success.
If all goes according to plan, as many as eight birds will be released each summer, over the next three to five years.
A report published by Scottish Natural Heritage in 2014 found the area could support between 11 and 13 pairs of golden eagles.
Some experts believe the figure could be higher still, with as many as 16 breeding pairs.
Golden eagles have all but disappeared in the north of England.
It is thought the relocated birds could eventually help the species extend its range back into Cumbria and Northumberland.
Illegal persecution remains a serious concern, but the environment minister, Dr Aileen McLeod, said she was determined that the persecution of raptors would “not be tolerated under any circumstances”.
She said: “It is particularly encouraging to see so many partners working hard to return golden eagles to the skies above the South of Scotland, in a way that enables grouse shooting to co-exist alongside birds of prey.
