Wild Birds

Golden Eagle Territory and Persecution

Golden eagles require vast territories but face illegal persecution across much of their range, limiting recovery in suitable habitats.

Key Facts

A breeding pair may require 50-100 square miles of territory
Illegal poisoning and shooting remain the primary threats
Scotland holds around 500 pairs, a fraction of potential capacity
Satellite tagging has documented numerous suspicious disappearances
Grouse moor management is correlated with eagle persecution hotspots

Welfare Considerations

Golden eagles that survive poisoning attempts often suffer prolonged deaths from toxic baits. Persecution-induced stress forces birds into suboptimal territories with less prey, affecting body condition and breeding success. Orphaned eaglets that survive persecution of parents face poor survival odds without parental guidance.

What You Can Do

Support satellite tracking programs that document persecution
Report suspicious raptor deaths to wildlife crime units
Advocate for stronger penalties for raptor persecution
Back land reform that reduces persecution incentives
Choose grouse-free venues for events to reduce market pressure