Natural England

The white-tailed eagle reintroduction project is a partnership project led by Natural England, to establish an English population of white-tailed eagles through the import and release of young birds into the wild.

The planning and consultation towards a possible introduction is being funded by Natural England, the RSPB, Suffolk Wildlife Trust and Anglian Water.

White-tailed eagles, already present in Scotland, (also referred to as ‘sea eagles’) are the fourth largest eagle in the world and the UK’s largest bird of prey. They are spectacular looking birds with an enormous wingspan of over two and a half metres, bodies around one metre in length and they weigh between four and five kg.

They are generalist scavengers and opportunists and feed on carrion or steal prey from other predators. They also catch live prey including fish, water-birds and medium sized mammals. The birds became extinct in England in the mid-nineteenth century due to loss of suitable habitat and human persecution. Archaeological and place name evidence shows that this eagle was once widespread across England, including in East Anglia.

This reintroduction is about restoring a bird to parts of the countryside where it would be naturally found, were it not for deliberate human persecution in the past.

Natural England, working with a range of partners, is currently assessing the feasibility of reintroducing white-tailed eagles into the east of England.

Initial studies identified the Suffolk coast as a possible suitable release site, and further specific research was then conducted to look at potential local impacts of a release programme. This study looked at many aspects, ranging from socio-economic considerations and agricultural interests to existing wildlife in the area. Public opinion about a potential reintroduction programme was also gauged at local consultation events.

This feasibility study is continuing in its scope of looking at the east of England from The Wash to The Thames, to identify possible suitable release sites for the reintroduction of white-tailed eagles.

The exact location of any potential release sites will be kept confidential to ensure the safety and security of the birds prior to their release.

If you require any further information or wish to discuss this exciting project please contact Andrew Smith, Communications Team, Eastbrook, Shaftesbury Road, Cambridge 01223 533474 or email Andrew.R.Smith@naturalengland.org.uk