Golden eagles could be returned to England after more than 150 years, as a feasibility study is expected to confirm there are enough suitable sites to support the bird of prey's reintroduction. The species has been effectively extinct in England owing to persecution by gamekeepers and farmers, with the last native golden eagle disappearing from a Lake District reserve in 2015.
Forestry England has carried out a study into whether and how the species could be reintroduced, and while not due for publication for several months, it is understood to conclude that the capacity exists to support a population. The process would follow guidelines set by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and require a licence from Natural England.
The South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project, begun in 2018, offers a recent model, with the population growing from three or four pairs to more than 50 – the highest in 300 years. A similar English scheme would likely focus on northern England, taking single chicks from established Scottish broods and rearing them with minimal human contact before release.
Duncan Orr-Ewing of the RSPB said prey availability would not be a problem in northern England, with grouse, rabbits and hares abundant. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said a reintroduction programme would consider public engagement and impacts on other species.
The move follows other successful reintroductions in England, including beavers and bison. A Defra spokesperson said: 'The recovery of golden eagles offers hope for the future of the species in Britain.'
