White-tailed eagle chicks take flight at Loch Sunart
Two white-tailed eagle chicks have successfully fledged from a nest beside Forestry and Land Scotland’s (FLS) popular visitor site at Loch Sunart following a collaborative effort to protect the birds during the breeding season.
The nest was occupied by a pair of white-tailed eagles earlier this year and to minimise disturbance and give the birds the best chance of successfully raising their young, FLS temporarily closed a nearby car park and footpath throughout the nesting period.
FLS staff engaged with visitors and the local community, helping to explain the reasons for the temporary restrictions and the importance of protecting the nesting birds.
Their efforts have helped deliver a positive conservation outcome, with two healthy eagle chicks successfully fledging at the end of July.
Environment Ranger Pete Madden said:
“Although the young birds are now flying, they remain close to the nest site while they build strength and confidence. The nest continues to serve as a feeding platform, with the adult birds regularly returning with food for the fledglings.
“To avoid disturbance during this critical stage, the car park and the trails to Àrd-Àirigh (signposted as Ardery) are currently closed until the juvenile birds begin ranging further from the nest area.
“We will continue to monitor their behaviour closely and advise when it is appropriate to reopen the nearby visitor facilities."
In the meantime, the Garbh Eilean hide, which offers spectacular views, is open to the public allowing for an up-close experience of the nest site without disturbing the birds.
FLS is asking the public to please respect the closure and avoid the trails as sign posted.
The successful breeding attempt highlights the value of careful site management and community support alongside responsible behaviour from visitors in helping to protect Scotland's wildlife.
Notes to editors
- Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
- Media enquiries to media@forestryandland.gov.scot