Golden eagles to get protection boost in Scotland

01/12/2009 12:54:14 Six new large new Special Protection Areas (SPA) for golden eagles

November 2009. One of Scotland's most iconic birds could soon receive better protection from damaging developments and disturbance; a move that is applauded by RSPB Scotland.

Scotland's environment minister, Roseanna Cunningham, has announced proposals to create six large new Special Protection Areas (SPA) for golden eagles covering more than 400,000 hectares in northern and western Scotland. Consultations on the proposals will be started by Scottish Natural Heritage in the New Year.

SPA
SPA status highlights the places that are critically important for birds on a European scale. They are an essential cornerstone of European and UK conservation and help deter damaging development proposals and activities. SPAs can also help focus funding to encourage appropriate management for protected species and their habitat.

Stuart Housden, director of RSPB Scotland, said: "Golden eagles require large home ranges, which can be affected by land use changes such as poorly located forestry planting, loss of prey such as rabbits and hares, windfarms and - sadly- continuing persecution.

"The new SPAs will ensure that decision makers consider the needs of the eagles, and land managers qualify for support from the Scottish Rural Development Plan so that they can continue to look after them. This is a great day for Scotland's unofficial national bird"

The proposed Special Protection Areas are: Glen Affric (in the Central Highlands) to Strathconon (in Ross-shire) The Cairngorms Massif Foinaven (at Durness) Moidart & Ardgour (near Fort William) Glen Etive (near Bridge of Orchy) to Glen Fyne (near Arrochar) Jura, Scarba and the Garvellachs (off the west coast)

There are currently eight Special Protection Areas for Golden Eagles in Scotland. Caenlochan in the Grampians Cairngorms Caithness Sutherland Peatlands Cnuic agus Cladach Mhuile (Mull Coast and Hills), Cuillins on Skye Lewis Peatlands North Harris Mountains The Isle of Rum.