30/11/2018
Conservationists are exploring
the feasibility of a White-tailed
Eagle reintroduction project in the Solent. The Forestry
Commission and Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, along with other partners, have
identified the Isle of Wight as a potential release area due to its position
amid rich foraging areas in the Solent, and with a strategic location on the
south coast. White-tailed Eagle hasn't bred on the Isle of Wight – or
anywhere in England – for almost 150 years, but the species has benefited
from successful reintroduction schemes in Scotland and Ireland.
White-tailed Eagles were once
widespread along the entirety of the south coast from Cornwall to
Kent before being driven to extinction by relentless persecution. Members
of the public have been invited to three open meetings in the island so they
can find out more about the proposals and these have – according to the
foundation – generated significant interest.
The charity is also conducting an
online survey to gather opinions on the scheme and Dr Tim Mackrill, who is
working on the project, said: "We feel that the Isle of Wight and
surrounding area is a perfect place for them because there is high food
availability and plenty of nesting sites. There are other far-reaching benefits
such as tourism – they have generated £5m for the economy on the Isle of Mull
and £2.4m for the Isle of Skye."
If the consultation and
feasibility study are successful, the foundation would need to apply for a
licence from Natural England. Should one be granted, it's possible the
first birds could be released as soon as 2019. Preliminary releases would
involve very small numbers, derived from the Scottish populations, at a
confidential site over a five-year period. Any tentative population restoration
on the island would be part of international efforts to help the eagles,
linking populations north of the border and across the Irish Sea, as well as
with those in The Netherlands and France
Roy Dennis said: "We believe
that the Isle of Wight is highly suitable for White-tailed Eagles. It is the
last known breeding site of the species in southern England, the Solent and
surrounding estuaries will provide a rich food supply, there are numerous
potential nesting sites in woods and cliffs and also good loafing areas
for young birds.
"Evidence from The
Netherlands, where there is a small but growing population of White-tailed
Eagles, indicates that the birds will do very well in this landscape. We are
keen to consult the local community, landowners and other stakeholders on the
Island to encourage support and involvement in the project, and to identify and
resolve any concerns."
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