Sea Eagle population predicted to soar over next decade
experts predict number of the iconic birds could more than double in less than 10 years
The number of sea eagles in Scotland could more than double in under a decade, a new report predicts.
Once a common sight, the species was hit hard by shrinking habitat and hunters and was declared extinct in Scotland in 1917, before being reintroduced in phases from 1975.
The number of breeding pairs of the bird, also known as the white-tailed eagle, is predicted to continuing increasing and the reintroduction programme is being hailed as a "genuine conservation success story''.
There were 106 pairs across the country in 2015 and now researchers expect there to be around 221 pairs by 2025.
A report for Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), written by researchers at the RSPB's Centre for Conservation Science, found that in the longer term the population could potentially reach 889-1,005 pairs by 2040.
The first release of the birds into the wild was on Rum from 1975-85, followed by Wester Ross from 1993-98 and more recently in Fife from 2007-12.
The report predicts the birds are most likely to expand their range in much of their historic territory, along the west coast of Scotland, the Great Glen and in central and eastern Scotland.
But the reintroduction programme has been the focus of criticism from some farmers and crofters, who say the birds prey on their livestock.
Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: "This report shows the return of the white-tailed eagle to the skies over Scotland is a genuine conservation success story.
"That success has not been achieved easily, and I pay tribute to all of those whose efforts over many decades have helped us reach this point.''
She also praised farmers and crofters who are working with the reintroduction programme, adding: "Successful reintroduction projects must work with stakeholders, as well as wildlife.''
Andrew Bachell, SNH's director of policy and advice, said: "The future of the white-tailed eagle looks stable and the population is growing well. Many people and organisations have contributed to this success and we should be proud of it.
"We know some farmers and crofters have serious concerns about the impact of sea eagles on their livestock, with some experiencing losses.
"We are working with NFU Scotland, local stakeholders and others to thoroughly understand the part sea eagles play in livestock losses, and we're committed to working together to find solutions to allow sea eagles and livestock farmers to co-exist.''