Young white-tailed eagles released on Exmoor

Six young white-tailed eagles have been released at Exmoor National Park, marking the first reintroduction of the species to the area since they vanished 200 years ago. The initiative, a collaboration between Forestry England and the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, aims to bolster the region's biodiversity. Forestry England's Angela Eagle announced the release, emphasizing the government's dedication to reversing nature's decline and safeguarding it for future generations.

The project, initiated in 2019, has led to the release of 45 eagles from the Isle of Wight population. In 2023, the program celebrated its first wild-born chick in southern England since 1780. The decision to include Exmoor was based on tracking data indicating the area's frequent visits by eagles. The expansive coastline of the national park provides ideal foraging grounds, rich in fish.

The Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation's Zoe Smith highlighted the restoration of a native species and the thorough consultation process before obtaining a license. Each eagle is fitted with a satellite tracker for ongoing monitoring. As these young eagles mature, they are expected to traverse extensive areas of the UK, potentially venturing into Europe, before returning to breed in four to five years.

Exmoor National Park Authority's senior ecologist, Ali Hawkins, expressed excitement over the reintroduction, emphasizing the eagles' vital role in both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. While some Scottish farmers have expressed concerns about potential livestock losses due to eagle predation, local Exmoor farmer Robin Milton expressed a more nuanced view, calling for a balanced approach to managing the impact on agriculture and local wildlife.

Smith assured that the foundation collaborates closely with farmers to address their concerns, and noted that no similar livestock attacks have been reported in Europe.