Up to 20 white-tailed eagles, the UK's largest bird of prey, will be released over three years in Exmoor National Park, the government has confirmed. The initiative aims to boost the species' comeback after it was hunted to extinction in southern England in the 18th century.
The reintroduction builds on a project by Forestry England and the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, which began releasing white-tailed eagles on the Isle of Wight in 2019. The first pair bred successfully in 2023, fledging the first chick born in the wild in England for over 240 years.
Exmoor was chosen as an additional release site after satellite trackers attached to eagles from the Isle of Wight showed they frequently visited the area, which provides suitable coastal habitat. Releases will take place from both locations this summer.
Roy Dennis, founder of the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, said: “White-tailed eagles were once a common sight in England but were lost centuries ago. This project is reversing that situation.” Stephen Egerton-Read, project manager at Forestry England, added: “Adding additional releases at Exmoor will help to boost their numbers and continue their spread across southern England.”
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds called the return “a powerful example of this Government’s commitment to reversing the decline of nature,” pointing to £90 million invested in species recovery. Natural England described the move as a “hugely exciting step” in restoring landscapes.
Despite concerns from some farmers that the eagles might prey on lambs, a study of the Isle of Wight birds found they targeted cuttlefish, rabbits, fish and other birds, with “no conflicts” with farming. Ali Hawkins of Exmoor National Park Authority said the park is committed to working with farmers to support adaptation.
