Global News - November 2007

< Back to Global News

White tailed eagles 'back from the brink'

Tue 20 November 2007 13:40 UK — Europe,Birds

Scotland's white tailed eagles are at their highest numbers since re-introduction programmes began 30 years ago, according to new figures.

The Scottish Government announced the results of a survey revealing there are now 200 of the birds, also known as a sea eagle, resident in the country, including 42 breeding pairs

While the birds were once common in Scotland, they faced extinction because of persecution and changing habitat until a series of re-introduction programmes since 1975 helped to build their numbers back up.

Scottish Environment Minister Michael Russell praised the work of the Sea Eagle Project Team, a joint initiative between the Forestry Commission Scotland and conservation groups: "This is fantastic news for Scotland's sea eagle population, our sustainable environment and our tourist economy."

"The increase of breeding pairs to their highest level in over 30 years is a credit to the work of the Sea Eagle Project Team and bodes well for the future development of these stunning birds," he added.

Alan Knight, chief executive of International Animal Rescue, which rescues, rehabilitates and releases Brahminy kites and white-bellied sea eagles in Indonesia, welcomed the news, describing the increase in numbers of sea eagles in Scotland as "a real conservation success story."

In its statement the Scottish Government added that there are plans to introduce more white-tailed eagle chicks to the country over the next few years, following the release of several chicks, brought in from Norway, in the Fife area this August.

Help IAR rescue and rehabilitate endangered wildlife.

News brought to you by International Animal Rescue, leaders in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.

< Back to Global News   |   Read IAR News

Read IAR News >