Wildlife

Wild Golden Eagle Welfare in Scottish Highlands

Golden eagles are iconic Scottish raptors whose welfare is threatened by illegal persecution, prey scarcity on managed moorland, and climate change affecting upland habitat.

Key Facts

Scotland holds around 500 breeding pairs - almost the entire UK golden eagle population
Territory quality correlates with rabbit and hare availability as key prey
Illegal poisoning and shooting remain documented threats in some areas
Young eagles disperse widely and face the highest mortality during establishment

Welfare Considerations

Golden eagle welfare requires large territories with diverse prey, freedom from illegal persecution, and protection of nest sites from disturbance. Monitoring survival of satellite-tagged individuals reveals welfare pressure points across the landscape.

What You Can Do

Report any suspected golden eagle persecution to Police Scotland Wildlife Crime
Support golden eagle monitoring through RSPB Scotland's survey programme
Oppose land management practices that reduce prey availability for golden eagles