Six majestic white-tailed eagles, known for their impressive 8ft wingspan, have been released into Exmoor National Park for the first time in more than 200 years.
These "flying barn doors" were once a common sight across southern England until the 18th century, when relentless persecution led to their complete eradication from the region.
Their reintroduction to Exmoor is the first in over two centuries for the area.
The release is part of an ambitious conservation initiative by Forestry England and the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation.
Since 2019, 45 white-tailed eagles have been released from the Isle of Wight, with some already establishing breeding pairs. Notably, 2023 saw the birth of the first wild chick in southern England since 1780, a testament to the project's early success.
Conservationists behind the scheme hope the new arrivals in Exmoor, which spans parts of Somerset and Devon, will further bolster the species' population and extend their crucial breeding range into the south-west of England.
Exmoor was chosen as an additional location for releases after satellite tracking showed some of the Isle of Wight birds had frequently visited the area – where historically they would have bred and which provides ideal foraging, plenty of fish and breeding habitat along the coastline.
The six birds were taken under licence from the wild in Scotland – where white-tailed eagles were successfully reintroduced some years ago – and brought south to Exmoor, where they have been cared for by experts while becoming used to their new surroundings.
It is expected they will travel widely following their release before returning to the area to breed when they are four or five years old.
Zoe Smith, from the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, said: “White-tailed eagles would have once been a common natural sight across the south-west of England.
“After so many years absent from this landscape it is a special moment to be returning them on Exmoor.
“We will closely monitor their progress as they explore and, in time, begin to settle across this region.”
Ali Hawkins, senior ecologist with Exmoor National Park Authority, said: “This is such an exciting moment for Exmoor and a real boost to biodiversity in the national park, as white-tailed eagles play a crucial role in both marine and land-based ecosystems.”
Before the birds were released, a comprehensive feasibility study and public surveys were conducted while a steering group made up of local organisations and community members is helping guide the project, the team said.
Up to 20 more young birds will be released from the Exmoor location over the next three years, while releases will continue from the Isle of Wight.
The latest release was welcomed by new Environment Secretary Angela Eagle, who said: “Majestic white‑tailed eagles – a particular favourite of mine – are once again soaring above Exmoor and the Isle of Wight, reflecting this Government’s commitment to reversing the decline of nature and protecting it for generations to come.”
She pointed to a £90 million investment in helping threatened species recover.
Read MoreBody found in river confirmed as missing teenager Taylor Charlton
US proposes stricter English proficiency rules for Mexican train crews
‘Dismay’ as model village removes figurine of topless streaker from football pitch
Burnham orders review into indefinite jail terms offering fresh hope to thousands
Major Railcard change means thousands more in UK can travel for half price
Women mistaken for Just Stop Oil sue Met Police over arrests before King’s coronation
