GOLDEN eagle numbers are set to soar as a result of a £1.3m funding boost.
The cash from the Heritage Lottery Fund will be used to increase numbers in the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway.
There are currently between two to four pairs of the iconic bird of prey in the south of Scotland but research has shown the habitat could support up to 16 breeding pairs.
Tagging has established that the eagles in the south of Scotland are isolated from the larger population in the Highlands, and the plan is to bring between five and 10 eagles to the south over a four-year period, using red kite and white-tailed eagle reintroduction schemes as models.
Single eagle chicks from Highland broods will also be raised then released at a secret location in the south of Scotland.
“Golden eagles are arguably Scotland’s most iconic species and this programme will ensure more of us can see these magnificent birds across the south of Scotland’s skies,” said Mark Oddy, chair of the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project.
“This venture is not just about birds, but is also about people and in the coming months we will continue to work closely with people living and working in the south of Scotland so everyone can get behind our endeavour.”
He added: “The Langholm Initiative will have a key role in hosting the project and in fostering the long-term economic and social benefits to enhance the influence and legacy of this project.”
RSPB Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, Forestry Commission Scotland and Scottish Land and Estates are also involved in the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project and have been working on it for more than ten years. Project manager Cat Barlow said: “Once we have the full funding package in place we can crack on in employing the team to take the work forward. Then the really exciting work begins as we see more golden eagles and the people of south Scotland rallying to promote this wonderful area for wildlife.
“One of our first jobs will be to appoint two local officers who can work in the community to build support in advance of the first eagles’ arrival.”
Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Secretary Roseanna Cunningham added: “This will ensure golden eagles have a secure footing in the south of Scotland and will bring huge benefits to the local economy and communities through a variety of tourism and educational opportunities.”
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