The white-tailed eagle, the ‘sea eagle’, has been re-introduced to Scotland since 1975. The last phase ended in 2015, 99 years after it was originally driven to extinction, when the breeding population reached a landmark 100 pairs. Despite this huge success, the species remains vulnerable and is only just gaining a foothold in Eastern Scotland.
In much of Europe, white-tailed eagles thrive in close association with humans; yet poisonings and, in one case the felling of an active nest tree, still occur in Scotland, mostly on or in close proximity to intensively managed grouse moors. These post a very real threat to the species’ long-term status.
Action Needed
- Work for the removal of threat posed by chronic bird of prey persecution, especially on and around grouse moors.
- Ensure the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy is fully implemented.
Threats
- Persecution by humans.
MSP Species Champion
Mark Ruskell
Member for: Mid Scotland and Fife
Party: Scottish Green Party
