Farmers concerned about eagles returning to Norfolk
The re-introduction of white-tailed eagles in part of Norfolk has been licensed by Natural England
Last updated 14th May 2021
Some farmers have raised concerns about the impact eagles returning to Norfolk could have on livestock, according to the National Farmers' Union (NFU).
Natural England has licensed the re-introduction of up to 60 white-tailed eagles, also known as sea eagles, at Wild Ken Hill.
The birds of prey, one of England lost native species, were driven to extinction as a breeding population in the 19th century.
In 2019, Natural England licensed the return of the species on the Isle of White as part of a project led by the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation to re-introduce them to create a breading programme on the south coast.
According to the NFU, some farmers in Norfolk are concerned about the impact the birds may have on livestock.
NFU East Anglia's Environment Advisor, Rob Wise, said:
"We're talking about lambs, piglets and those alike, that could be taken by these birds and, at the very least, livestock could be worried about these birds circling overhead.
"There was also concern raised about the affect on other bird species, because many of our members are very active conservationists and are promoting along the coast, breeding waders and alike. It's not entirely clear what the impact on these conservation species will be."
The re-introduction was initially proposed to be a five-year project, but Natural England says it has taken the decision to extend it to 10-years.
It made the change to "ensure a decade-long term of support" which will be well into the period when the eagles are expected to begin breeding.
In addition, Natural England has developed an exit strategy should there be "unacceptable unforeseen" impacts on local businesses or the environment, and will be working closely with local landowners to address concerns.
Mr Wise added:
"We're pleased that Natural England have decided to make it a 10-year project, because the estate that's releasing the birds is really only legally responsible while the project itself is still live in the terms of the licence.
"To have a five-year project could have been very reckless, we think. We're very pleased that it is going to be a 10-year project and that will give us more opportunity to make sure, if there are any adverse impacts, we can work with the estate to make sure they are resolved."