- Wildlife
- Birds
- Birds of prey
- White-tailed Eagle
Wildstock
About
Our largest bird of prey, the white-tailed eagle, sometimes known as the 'sea eagle', was persecuted to extinction in the UK; in 1916 the last female was shot on the Isle of Skye. It was reintroduced during the 1970s from Norway and around 40 pairs now nest in Scotland thanks to huge conservation efforts. Good places to spot the white-tailed eagle include the Isle of Mull, off the west coast of Scotland where it hunts for fish, mammals and small birds.
How to identify
A massive and impressive bird of prey, the white-tailed eagle has broader wings than the golden eagle with which it shares its home. Adults have a white, wedge-shaped tail and a pale head with a yellow beak. They are more likely to be found near the coast than the golden eagle.
Where to find it
A very rare bird, found on the west coast of Scotland.
Habitats
When to find it
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- Novermber
- December
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
How can people help
White-tailed eagles were persecuted to extinction, only surviving in the UK thanks to a successful reintroduction programme. These birds are still threatened, however, as our wetland and coastal habitats continue to degrade and pollutants build up in the food chain, affecting these and other apex predators. The Wildlife Trusts work closely with fishermen, farmers, landowners and developers to ensure that our rare wildlife is protected. You can help this vital work by supporting your local Wildlife Trust.