Eyes in the sky

Yorkshire Dales Moorland Group

What a majestic sight! One of our moorland gamekeepers observed this White-tailed Eagle here in the Dales today as it soared effortlessly over the moors near Wensleydale. This spectacular bird has been resident in the area for a number of days and has attracted a lot of attention from the local buzzards and ravens. Weighing in at approximately 4.5 to 5.5kg (females are larger) these large raptors are considered to be the fourth largest eagle in the world. With a huge wingspan of over 2 metres it's not surprising that they are sometimes referred to as the flying barn door!

White tailed eagles were driven out of the UK in the 19th century because of their capacity for taking sheep. Whilst these birds do impact on sheep farming in Scotland where they are more common it's probable that this individual will, for the most part, be eating rabbits, carrion or waterfowl. They are well adapted to taking geese so maybe it will extend its dietary requirements on to the burgeoning population of grey-lag geese here in the Dales.

Our moors are always home to raptors. The reported sightings of common buzzards, red kites, kestrels and hen harriers are increasing year on year. Merlins and peregrines along with all five species of owls can be seen regularly by the observant individuals among us.

We have eagles to add to that enviable and growing list.