Reintroduction of Sea Eagles to Exmoor threatens farm livelihoods and wellbeing, says NSA

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is disappointed by yesterday’s (Wednesday 13th May) announcement that Natural England has issued a licence enabling the next phase of white-tailed eagle reintroductions in southern England. The licence will permit the release of up to 20 birds in Exmoor National Park over three years.

NSA opposes the reintroduction amid concerns of the potential economic losses, compromised animal welfare and subsequent mental health risks to farmers.

NSA Policy Manager Michael Priestley says: “This is not the outcome NSA wanted but we are committed to working with steering groups and across the range of stakeholders to avoid and manage conflict where and if it arises. NSA recognises the bird has a history of being native to the British Isles and believes emphasis should be placed on learning about its population dynamics and behaviour ahead of further reintroductions.”

He adds that while the previous release of birds on the Isle of Wight have, to date, caused no agricultural conflict, it remains very ‘early days’.

“The 45 birds released since 2019 on the south coast have only been mature and of breeding age for two years, so more time is needed to gauge what impact they might have on ecosystems and farmers remains unclear.

“NSA has long suggested that natural, organic spread by the birds under their own steam may be more sustainable and reflective of ecology and habitat balance.”

NSA believes that efforts to speed up the colonisation of the eagles in England seem to be in advance of their true impact being fully understood.

Mr Priestley continues: “Predation is a major challenge in some areas on the west coast of Scotland where farmers are losing significant numbers of viable lambs. This must be considered a possibility for the areas of southern England now to be repopulated with the birds once again.”

NSA is firmly committed to maintaining the constructive working relationship with Forestry England, the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, and Exmoor National Park Authority to ensure this and any future reintroductions are managed with farmers’ livelihoods fully considered.