Exclusive: Study expected to confirm there are enough suitable sites to support bird of prey’s return
After more than 150 years, golden eagles could be set to return to England, as a study is expected to confirm there are enough suitable sites to support the reintroduction of the UK’s most iconic bird of prey.
Golden eagles, which can have a wingspan of more than 2 metres, are occasionally seen in areas such as Northumberland. However, these birds come from a growing population in southern Scotland. A recent project to reintroduce the birds in Scotland is likely to be a model for any reintroduction in England.
Owing to persecution from gamekeepers and farmers, the species has been in effect extinct in England for about 150 years. The last native golden eagle, which lived alone on a reserve in the Lake District, disappeared in 2015.
But after a decision to legally release beavers in England – a pair of the animals were released in Dorset in March – the environment secretary, Steve Reed, is overseeing plans that could lead to golden eagles being brought back.
