Eagle eyed

Alastair Robertson (Magazine, 13 March) mentions nine factors adversely affecting golden eagles, whose Scottish population (contrary to his assertion) is not increasing, but plays down the effect of poisoning on this species.

By The Newsroom

Published 15th Mar 2010, 20:15 BST

Updated 15th Mar 2010, 20:20 BST

Mr Robertson does not acknowledge that the study to which he refers showed some of these factors to be minor ones only. The study found that persecution (including poisoning) is the most serious constraint on the Scottish golden eagle population, followed by poor food supply in parts of western Scotland.

PATRICK STIRLING-AIRD

Secretary, Scottish Raptor Study Groups

Old Kippenross, Dunblane