Wildlife

Golden Eagle Welfare in Scottish Highlands

The welfare and conservation challenges facing golden eagles across their UK range.

Key Facts

Around 500 golden eagle pairs breed in Scotland — most in the Highlands
They require large territories — pairs may range over 100 square kilometres
Illegal persecution is the primary welfare threat — shooting, trapping, and poisoning
Satellite tagging reveals many eagles die in mysterious circumstances in grouse moor areas

Welfare Considerations

Golden eagle welfare is primarily threatened by illegal persecution in the UK — satellite-tagged birds disappearing over managed moorland is a documented pattern. Welfare-informed conservation uses satellite tracking to identify mortality hotspots, supports wildlife crime investigation, and advocates for land management reform. Each eagle death represents welfare harm and reduces the viability of the population.

What You Can Do

Report any suspected raptor persecution immediately to the police and RSPB
Support satellite tracking programmes that document golden eagle movements and mortality
Advocate for wildlife crime reform and stronger enforcement in areas with documented persecution