Ecologists Warn Reintroduction of White-Tailed Eagles May Threaten Seabird Colonies

The ongoing debate surrounding the reintroduction of white-tailed eagles in England and Wales has intensified as conservationists raise concerns about the potential impact on native seabird colonies. While the return of these large raptors is viewed as a significant conservation achievement, some academics and experts argue that their presence could lead to the collapse of breeding populations for species such as puffins, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, and kittiwakes.

The reintroduction of white-tailed eagles risks causing severe disruption to vulnerable coastal seabird colonies.

Concerns over the reintroduction of white-tailed eagles

Tim Birkhead, an emeritus professor at the University of Sheffield, noted that while the return of the species is exciting, the potential for these birds to destroy seabird colonies has been overlooked. The current proposals include releasing up to 60 eagles in Gwent, south Wales, in addition to 20 birds already being released on Exmoor. This initiative has caused a divide among conservation groups; the Gwent Wildlife Trust supports the plan, while the Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales (WTSWW) remains opposed, citing the need to protect globally important sanctuaries like the islands of Skomer and Skokholm.

Beyond direct predation, researchers point to the indirect "fear effect." When eagles are present, adult seabirds may desert their nests, leaving chicks vulnerable to other predators like gulls and corvids. Studies in Scandinavia have suggested that white-tailed eagles can accelerate the decline of struggling colonies, particularly when food shortages force seabirds to spend more time away from their nests.

Prof Geoff Hilton of the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, which is leading the Gwent project, argues that the risks must be balanced against the potential for healthier, more balanced ecosystems. He noted that the eagles are generalist feeders and that the project aims to establish only seven to nine breeding pairs over the next decade. Research from the Baltic region suggests that species of conservation concern make up a small portion of the eagles' overall diet.

Natural Resources Wales is currently reviewing the license application for the Gwent release. A final decision is expected after a public consultation process that would follow any initial approval, likely occurring between 2026 and 2027.

Why it matters

The debate highlights the complex challenges of restoring apex predators to modern, depleted landscapes. It forces a difficult choice between the success of one species and the survival of others, affecting how conservationists manage biodiversity in protected coastal areas.