Golden eagles poised to return to England’s skies after 150 years

The UK government has approved a £1 million funding to reintroduce golden eagles to England, where they were driven to near extinction during the Victorian era. The iconic birds, mentioned over 40 times in William Shakespeare’s works, could soon soar over England’s skies again, with eight potential recovery zones identified in northern England.

The last known golden eagle in England died in the Lake District in 2016, but a new feasibility study by Forestry England suggests the conditions are ripe for their return. The study identifies areas such as the Cheviots, North Pennines, and Yorkshire Dales as suitable habitats.

Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting and restoring native wildlife, including iconic species like the golden eagle. The reintroduction program will involve releasing juveniles, six to eight weeks old, into the wild as early as next year.

Golden eagles play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance as apex predators, and their return is expected to boost biodiversity and ecosystem health.