South of Scotland golden eagle project faces funding threat

The project has proved a success at increasing the numbers of golden eagles in the area over the past six years.

When it started there was just a handful of the birds but numbers have now reached nearly 50 – the highest in centuries.

Michael Clarke, who chairs SSGEP, said it was “absolutely crucial” that the project secured the funding needed to ensure its work could continue.

Project manager Cat Barlow added: “We have great plans to build on and extend our groundbreaking work so that other parts of the UK benefit from the return of golden eagles.

“But we can only do this with public support.

“Our current funding runs out at the end of this year, and we will need to wind down very soon unless we can raise more funds.”