Nature Heroes - South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project
Golden eagle numbers in the south of Scotland are growing thanks to a groundbreaking restoration project. Working closely with raptor experts, ecologists, vets, estates, land managers, landowners, gamekeepers and local communities, the award-winning South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project has increased the population to around 46 since its first translocation in 2018 - the highest number recorded for three centuries.
The project has inspired the local community. The initiative’s two community outreach officers run an Eagle Schools programme and work in partnership with a wide range of community groups and businesses, The team supported the Moffat community to create the UK’s first ever eagle festival. Now in its third year, the Moffat Eagle Festival continues to support economic regeneration within the town.
SSGEP - Project Highlights
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A series of 6 graphical tiles which highlight golden eagle numbers.
- 46 golden eagles in the south of Scotland
- A programme of research, engagement and fundraising launched in 2007 leading to first reintroduction in 2018
- Over 15,000 community volunteers and project participants
- 23 private estates support the project
- Tagged eagles monitored by following satellite data and observing birds in the field
- 809 children have engaged in the project's Eagle School programme
The project is hosted by the charity The Southern Uplands Partnership, and supported by Scottish Land & Estates, RSPB Scotland, Scottish Forestry, NatureScot, Eskdale Solutions, the Scottish Government, Scottish Borders Council and Scottish Power Renewables. It previously received £1.5 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and more than £150,000 match funding from the Scottish Government and the European Union – LEADER 2014-2020 programme – delivered by Scottish Borders Council and Dumfries and Galloway Council.
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