Sites designated for golden eagle protection

Published on Thursday 28 October 2010 14:19

Protection is being increased for one of Scotland's most iconic bird's of prey.

Six new sites are being designated as Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for the golden eagle.

Covering more than 350,000 hectares of northern and western Scotland, they are expected to bring some 80 additional breeding territories into the current network of eight sites.

The Scottish Government decided to go ahead with the plans after they received broad support in a consultation by Scottish Natural Heritage earlier this year.

Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham said: "It's fitting that we're taking further steps to protect golden eagles as they are one of Scotland's most iconic species.

"People come here from across the world with the hope of catching just a glimpse of one of these beautiful birds in their natural environment. These new protected areas will mean they can continue to do this for generations to come.

"We have a duty to protect our biodiversity but that doesn't mean that we should rule out economic activity in our countryside. I know these designations are often seen as constraints on development but the potential for conflict can be minimised with careful planning."

The Special Areas of Protection are: Glen Affric to Strathconon (in the Central Highlands and Ross-shire), Cairngorms Massif, Foinaven (at Durness), Moidart and Ardgour (near Fort William), Glen Etive (near Bridge of Orchy) to Glen Fyne (near Arrochar), Jura, Scarba and the Garvellachs (off the West coast).

Stuart Housden, director of RSPB Scotland, said: "Years of survey effort and study, involving dozens of scientists, volunteers and policy makers, has brought its due reward. These new SPAs are amongst the best places in western Europe for these great birds.

"The challenge now is to ensure that the sites are protected and good land management within them supported and funded, so that together with the existing eagle SPAs they can continue contributing to improving the health of our golden eagle population for many years to come."