Golden eagles are on the rise

The number of golden eagles in southern Scotland has risen to its highest in 300 years. As part of the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project, eight chicks were successfully moved from other parts of the country to a secret location in southern Scotland to boost numbers.

It means the total number of golden eagles (the UK’s second-largest raptor after the reintroduced sea eagle) in southern Scotland is now around 46 birds – the highest number recorded there for 300 years.

Before the project began, there were thought to be between two and six pairs of golden eagles across Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders.

The area is hosting the UK’s only eagle festival between 22 and 24 September.

BBC Springwatch presenter Iolo Williams said: “It is fantastic to hear that the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project has once again successfully transported so many golden eagles to the area.”

Cat Barlow, project manager for the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project, added: “This is an incredible year for the project. This is a significant new step in our work to ensure the south of Scotland golden eagle population is selfsustaining.”

This story first appeared in Shooting Times, Britain’s oldest and best-selling shooting magazine. Published every Wednesday, the 141-year-old title has long been at the coalface of the countryside, breaking the stories that matter to you. Subscribe here.