Sea eagles had a bumper crop of chicks this year, producing more young than in any other year since they were reintroduced 35 years ago.
RSPB Scotland said 46 young birds fledged which was 10 more than the previous year. The charity also reported that Scotland also has 52 adult pairs, an increase of six on 2009 figures. The birds were first reintroduced to Rum in 1975 and at other places on the west coast and have recently been reintroduced in Fife. Last year, a sea eagle was spotted over Cumbria and Dumfries and Galloway after it flew down from Fife.
Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham said the record increase in numbers was fantastic. She said, “2010 is a significant year in that it is the 25th anniversary of the first young to be reared in Scotland since its extinction in the early 20th Century, and it is also the Year of International Biodiversity.
“I have no doubt that the successful reintroduction of this magnificent bird can continue, and along with the East Coast Sea Eagle Project, ensures that this species can establish territories right across Scotland, restoring a strong Scotland-wide population.”