Wildlife

Wild Golden Eagle Welfare Scotland

Golden eagles are recovering slowly in Scotland but face ongoing threats from illegal persecution on grouse moors, lead poisoning, and wind turbine collision as renewable energy expands.

Key Facts

Scotland holds approximately 500 golden eagle territories representing 75% of the UK population
Golden eagles have recovered from persecution lows of the early 20th century but remain vulnerable
Satellite tracking documents eagles disappearing over driven grouse moors at suspicious rates
Lead poisoning from deer and grouse carcasses containing lead shot affects individual welfare
Wind turbine collision is an emerging mortality cause requiring careful turbine siting

Welfare Considerations

Golden eagle welfare requires active protection from persecution, lead poisoning, and turbine collision. Each of these is preventable through policy and behaviour change.

What You Can Do

Report suspected golden eagle persecution to wildlife crime authorities immediately
Support lead ammunition phase-out campaigns protecting eagles and other raptors
Advocate for turbine siting assessments that consider golden eagle flight paths
Donate to organisations monitoring and protecting golden eagle populations