Eagles could soar over Wales again, says Cardiff researcher

EAGLES could return to the skies of Wales for the first time in nearly 200 years.

A study is being carried out to see whether the British golden eagle and the white-tailed eagle could be re-introduced.

Places being looked at as possible re-introduction sites are Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons for golden eagles and the west Wales coast for the white-tailed eagle.

Cardiff University researchers are looking at whether Wales’ 21st century landscape could support the two lost species which last lived here in the late 1800s.

Once a common sight in skies over Wales the golden and white-tailed eagle were driven to extinction here in the mid-1800s. Loss of habitat and human persecution have left the European population of both eagle species in decline.

But researchers hope successful re-introduction in Scotland and Ireland could be replicated in Wales. Until now there has not been a rigorous assessment of whether it may be possible.

Eagle Reintroduction Wales Project researcher, Sophie-lee Williams from Cardiff University, said: “This is a very exciting opportunity for Wales.

“Wales is home to large expanses of potentially suitable eagle habitat, but, before we begin reintroducing the species, there are many questions we need to answer about the quality of habitat, and whether it can sustain eagles. Working closely with partners such as the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation and Wildlife Trust Wales, we are currently carrying out a full feasibility study which will enable us to answer some of these questions.”