Wildlife Conservation

Wild Golden Eagle Welfare and Territory Recovery

Golden eagles are recovering in Scotland but remain rare in England. Illegal persecution and illegal poisoning continue to cause welfare harm and constrain range expansion.

Key Facts

Scotland supports approximately 500 golden eagle pairs, most in the northern Highlands
Golden eagles are legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Illegal poisoning with carbofuran and other pesticides causes painful deaths in eagles
Prey availability in areas with high grouse moor management affects eagle territory quality
Rewilding and forest expansion may support eagle range expansion in upland England

Welfare Considerations

Golden eagle welfare is compromised by illegal persecution causing painful deaths. The welfare and conservation losses from illegal poisoning are compounded by the slow reproductive rate of eagles.

What You Can Do

Report suspected raptor poisoning to the RSPB or Police Wildlife Officers
Support the RSPB's Hen Harrier and Golden Eagle Life projects
Advocate for stronger sentencing and monitoring for raptor persecution crimes