Golden eagles may return to England after over 150 years due to recent studies indicating suitable sites for their reintroduction. Presently, these birds are seen in Northumberland and derive from a population in southern Scotland. Extinction in England has resulted from historical persecution. A feasibility study by Forestry England suggests that conditions exist to support a population. Successful reintroduction requires adherence to international guidelines and licensing from Natural England. The South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project exemplifies successful reintroduction efforts that led to population increases in the region.
Golden eagles, which can have a wingspan of more than 2 metres, are occasionally seen in areas such as Northumberland. However, these birds come from a growing population in southern Scotland.
Owing to persecution from gamekeepers and farmers, the species has been in effect extinct in England for about 150 years. The last native golden eagle, which lived alone on a reserve in the Lake District, disappeared in 2015.
Forestry England has carried out a feasibility study into whether and how the species could be reintroduced. While this is not due to be published for several months, it is understood that it concludes there is the capacity to support a population of the birds.
Reintroducing extinct species is a complex process and needs to follow guidelines set out by the France-based International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), as well as being licensed by Natural England.
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