Reintroduced to Ireland by the Golden Eagle Trust (GET) and National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), the conservation effort aimed to secure a viable population following their extinction in Ireland in the late 19th century. One hundred eagle chicks were brought from Norway and released in Killarney National Park, County Kerry between 2007 and 2011, with additional young birds released in 2020 as part of the second phase of the reintroduction project, across Ireland.
The white-tailed eagle, also known as the ‘sea eagle’, is the UK’s largest bird of prey, with an impressive wingspan of up to 2.4m and stands at almost 1m tall. Found near open water, either coastal or fresh, the eagles depend on the availability of large, mature trees in undisturbed areas in which to build their nests and good quality foraging and fishing habitats. They can live to over 20 years of age, and begin breeding at five years old.
The newly discovered breeding pair, wing-tagged and tracked by satellite, were released in 2020 on the shores of Lough Derg, Co Tipperary and are four years old. The pair have successfully fledged one chick, confirming that the wetlands, woodlands and farmlands of Co. Fermanagh provide ideal habitats for this majestic species.
Dr Eimear Rooney from Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group (NIRSG) said: “The confirmation of this eagle species breeding in Northern Ireland corrects a multi-generational absence, symbolising the restoration of a once extinct species and highlighting the importance of wetlands, woodlands and farmland habitats on which many of our raptors depend. From reviewing satellite data provided by NPWS we had an idea that the birds were nesting, but with young eagles nothing is guaranteed. I can’t describe the adrenalin rush the moment I saw the chick earlier this year and confirmed that the birds were not only nesting but had successfully reared a chick.”
Dean Jones, Investigations Officer from RSPB NI said: “The return of breeding white-tailed eagles to Northern Ireland is a true testament to the power of conservation and really showcases the awe-inspiring resilience and adaptability of our natural world. The poisoning of the two white-tailed eagles in Glenwherry in May 2023 was devastating, however, to have this pair breeding successfully, under the protection of a caring local farmer, really illustrates how humans and birds of prey can exist in harmony.”