Wildlife

Golden Eagle Conservation: Highland Welfare and Illegal Persecution

Overview of golden eagle welfare, Scottish Highland ecology, and persistent persecution threats.

Key Facts

Scotland has approximately 500 breeding pairs of golden eagles
Illegal persecution on managed grouse moors is a leading welfare threat
Golden eagles have large territories requiring extensive undisturbed upland habitat
Satellite tagging reveals high rates of suspicious disappearances on grouse estates
Legal protection has existed for decades but enforcement remains challenging

Welfare Considerations

Golden eagle welfare is severely compromised by illegal persecution on some sporting estates. Despite decades of legal protection, satellite tracking reveals suspicious disappearances consistently correlated with grouse moor management areas. Conservation requires both legal reform, including licensing of driven grouse shooting, and effective law enforcement. Upland habitat quality is also essential for long-term welfare.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB Scotland and Raptor Persecution UK campaigns
Advocate for licensing of driven grouse shooting with welfare conditions
Donate to satellite tagging programmes that document eagle welfare and persecution