Wildlife Conservation

Wild White-tailed Eagle: UK Reintroduction Progress

White-tailed eagles were reintroduced to England in 2019 following successful reestablishment in Scotland and Ireland. The expanding population represents one of the most exciting UK conservation stories.

Key Facts

White-tailed eagles have a wingspan of up to 2.4 metres, the UK's largest bird of prey
Scotland now hosts over 150 breeding pairs following decades of reintroduction effort
English birds from the Isle of Wight reintroduction have spread across southern England
Illegal persecution and poisoning continue to threaten individual birds
White-tailed eagles feed on fish, birds and carrion and use coastal and freshwater habitats

Welfare Considerations

White-tailed eagle welfare depends on freedom from persecution and access to undisturbed foraging and nesting sites. The welfare of each individual in a small reintroduced population carries additional conservation significance.

What You Can Do

Support the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation white-tailed eagle reintroduction programme
Report any suspected white-tailed eagle disturbance or poisoning immediately
Advocate for strengthened legal protection and monitoring of all large raptor territories