UK Government Pledges £1 Million to Reintroduce Golden Eagles to England

The UK government has pledged £1 million to support the reintroduction of golden eagles to England.

“- Published Golden Eagles will once again be a permanent feature of English skies, as the government pledges £1m to back the reintroduction of the species as early as next year”

BBC

Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said the funding would allow work alongside partners and communities.

BBC

Forestry England identified eight potential recovery zones, mostly in the north of England.

Restoring Upland Nature will lead the programme in England.

The funding is part of a £60 million species recovery package.

Golden eagles are Britain's second largest bird of prey with a two-metre wingspan.

They serve as apex predators that help keep ecosystems in balance.

El-Balad

Ed Parr Ferris said golden eagles are one of the only remaining apex predators in Britain.

The study estimated it would take 20 years for the birds to naturally expand south.

Satellite tracking has shown some birds have begun to fly across the border.

Farming communities have raised concerns about the threat to lambs.

“One of Britain’s most iconic birds, the golden eagle, is poised to make a return to England after more than 150 years after the Government paved the way for a recovery programme that could include reintroduction”

GOV.UK

William Maughan said thorough engagement with farmers was crucial.

The return of eagles has not always been met with positive responses.

Some farmers reported having to abandon their hill farms after sea eagles decimated lambs.

Ed Parr Ferris acknowledged golden eagles can take small lambs very occasionally.