Golden Eagles Return to English Skies After 170-Year Absence

Majestic Birds of Prey Spotted in Northern England, Sparking Hope for Permanent Return

Tags: golden eagles, wildlife conservation, UK birds of prey, rewilding, Northumberland, Scottish Borders, endangered species

Categories: Environment, Wildlife, Conservation, UK Nature

A Historic Comeback for England’s Largest Bird of Prey

For the first time since the mid-19th century, golden eagles are soaring over England again—raising hopes that these majestic raptors may soon nest south of the Scottish border.

Among the pioneers is Talla, a young male eagle spotted in Northumberland earlier this year. Wildlife enthusiast Ian Glendinning, who has observed these birds in Scotland, was stunned to see one near his home.

“It was colossal—there was no mistaking it,” Glendinning recalls. “Seeing such a powerful bird up close is absolutely breathtaking.”

How Conservation Efforts Are Bringing Eagles Back

Talla is one of 50 golden eagles thriving in southern Scotland, thanks to the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project (SSGEP). Since 2018, the initiative has relocated 43 eagles from the Highlands to bolster the dwindling population.

• Satellite tracking confirms some eagles are now exploring England—including the Lake District, North Pennines, and Yorkshire.
• Experts say this could mark a “significant milestone” in their natural return.
• The last resident golden eagle in England disappeared from the Lake District in 2015.

Why Did Golden Eagles Disappear?

Historically, these birds were wiped out due to persecution by farmers and gamekeepers who saw them as threats to livestock. Despite brief recoveries after World Wars I and II, they never reestablished a permanent presence in England—until now.

Could Eagles Nest in England Again?

Dr. Cat Barlow of Restoring Upland Nature explains that young eagles naturally explore new territories in search of mates and hunting grounds.

“They create a mental map of where they’ve been,” she says. “If they find a good spot, they may settle.”

Northumberland Wildlife Trust has even acquired 9,500 acres of land, hoping to one day host a breeding pair. CEO Mike Pratt believes the landscape is ideal:

“Golden eagles don’t recognize borders. The terrain here is perfect for them.”

A Symbol of Hope for UK Wildlife

While it’s still too early to confirm if the eagles will stay permanently, their return is a testament to successful conservation. For now, sightings like Glendinning’s inspire awe and optimism:

“They belong here. Every time I see one, it feels like a gift.”