Crime fears over disappearance of young Tayside golden eagle

Crime concerns have arisen following the disappearance of a young Tayside-born golden eagle. The eaglet, which hatched in 2022, was equipped with a satellite tag in its nest. The tag had been transmitting regularly until May of this year when it abruptly stopped sending signals. The last recorded location of the eagle was in an area of moorland within the Angus Glens – a region known for illegal bird of prey activities. According to RSPB Scotland, golden eagles, Scotland’s national emblem, continue to be targeted for illegal persecution. When the data from the eagle’s tag ceased, it was promptly handed over to the police for examination. Despite a joint search effort by Police Scotland, the National Wildlife Crime Unit, and RSPB Scotland, no sign of the bird or its tag was found. It is a criminal offence to harm a bird of prey, with perpetrators facing fines or imprisonment. Legislation implemented in March 2024 stipulates that any unlawful activity on a grouse moor could result in the withdrawal of its operating license. RSPB Scotland’s senior investigations officer, Will Hayward, voiced suspicions regarding the sudden halt in transmissions from the tag, indicating possible human interference. He noted a pattern where tagged birds often vanish near grouse moors, suggesting foul play. The unexplained disappearance of the young eagle near a grouse moor is not an isolated incident. Earlier this year, a buzzard was discovered deceased near the boundaries of a central Perthshire estate, having suffered a slow demise from a gunshot wound and subsequent infection. The Angus region was highlighted as a hotspot for raptor crimes in a government report in 2017, revealing a persistent trend of incidents and mysterious vanishings. The recent shooting of an osprey on the opening day of grouse shooting season and the suspicious disappearance of a sat-tagged hen harrier further underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Scotland’s bird of prey populations. If any suspicious activity involving birds of prey is observed, individuals are urged to contact Police Scotland or report anonymously to the RSPB’s Raptor Crime Hotline.

Insights and Summary:
The disappearance of the young Tayside golden eagle highlights the ongoing issue of illegal bird of prey persecution in Scotland, particularly in areas like the Angus Glens. Concerns have been raised about the potential human interference leading to the bird’s disappearance, reflecting a broader pattern of threats faced by raptors near grouse moors. The collaborative efforts of authorities and conservation organisations are essential in investigating these incidents and protecting Scotland’s wildlife. Vigilance and swift action are crucial in combating wildlife crimes and ensuring the safety of endangered species like the golden eagle.