Golden eagles . . . the facts

POPULATION There are 442 breeding pairs in the UK, mostly in the Highlands

DIET Includes rabbits, hare and grouse. The eagles will also feed on deer and sheep carcases

EYESIGHT They have very sharp eyesight and can spot a rabbit 2km away

SIZE They are the second largest bird in the UK, after

PROTECTED Anyone taking, injuring or killing a golden eagle or its nest, eggs or young could face up to six months in jail

STRENGTH The maximum weight most golden eagles can lift is between 4kg and 5kg

HABITAT The golden eagle is native to the open moorlands and mountains of Scotland, favouring islands and remote glens