A NEW report has confirmed that some parts of Scotland no longer have viable populations of native golden eagles—despite having the ideal habitat conditions for the species to thrive.

A newly-published report by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) concludes there is clear evidence of the eagles’ decline in areas where there still appears to be use of illegal poisoned baits.

Reviewing the recent work and results contained in several scientific publications, the report found that only three of 16 regions in Scotland had populations of golden eagle—Aquila chrysaetos—which were stable or expanding and occupying most of the existing suitable habitat.

These were all in western Scotland.

The most serious problems were found in the central and eastern Highlands, where less than half of all known territories were occupied and the existing populations of eagles were continuing to decline.

Based on the numbers of young golden eagles produced by the remaining pairs, the populations in these regions should be expanding markedly.

Instead, their numbers are declining and they are failing to produce youngsters that could settle in other parts of Scotland.

The main land use in these regions is grouse moor management.

These results are consistent with several other studies showing that eagles have been subjected to illegal persecution in parts of these areas.

The report’s authors looked at 10 factors which could affect the golden eagle population, ranging from grazing by sheep— which might reduce the heathery habitat important for prey species—to wind farms.

Results showed that illegal persecution is the most severe constraint on golden eagles, preventing them from achieving a healthy population in suitable habitats throughout parts of the country.

Environment minister Michael Russell said, “The golden eagle is a magnificent bird of prey and a key species for Scotland and I find this evidence of its decline deeply disturbing.

“This is a timely report, with tackling crimes against our wildlife firmly on my— and Scotland’s—agenda.

“In addition the report alas gives scientific proof, if further proof was needed, that the illegal use of poisoned baits continues to blight our country.

“I want SNH to continue working with other bodies, including the police and land managers, to stamp out this persecution.

“We should all get the chance to see golden eagles in the wild,” Mr Russell added.

In Scotland the golden eagle is protected in law under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and the EC Birds Directive—and yet despite this Scotland’s second largest bird of prey is still at risk.