Golden eagles, once common in Shakespearean England, could soon return to English skies after more than 150 years of absence. A new study by Forestry England has identified eight potential 'recovery zones' in northern England that could sustain a population, prompting the government to allocate £1m in additional species recovery funding.
The last native golden eagle in England is thought to have died in 2015 in the Lake District, where it had lived alone. Their decline was largely due to centuries of persecution by gamekeepers and farmers who viewed them as a threat to livestock and game birds. However, the study published on Sunday concluded that England now has the capacity to support golden eagles once again.
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said the funding would help pave the way for a programme that could see juveniles aged six to eight weeks released as early as next year. 'This government is committed to protecting and restoring our most threatened native wildlife – and that includes bringing back iconic species like the golden eagle,' she said.
In southern Scotland, golden eagle populations have recovered to record numbers due to a major restoration project. Satellite tracking shows that some translocated birds have already crossed into northern England. The new funding aims to support these birds settling south of the border, alongside targeted reintroductions.
Mike Seddon, chief executive of Forestry England, said the findings would guide next steps with partners, including building support among local communities and landowners. The funding is part of a £60m species recovery package announced by Defra, aligned with the UK's target to halt species decline by 2030.
