Sea eagles' impact on farmers comes under spotlight as NFUS seeks feedback for NatureScot action plan
THE impact sea eagles may be having on the livelihood of crofters and farmers anxious about sheep flocks is coming under the microscope.
Farming union NFUS wants up to date views on the impact that white-tailed sea eagles are having on them.
The farmers' union survey is being undertaken on the back of a review of the work carried out under the existing White-tailed Eagle Action Plan. It is being undertaken by NatureScot and will look at the information gathered and lessons learned to date to help inform the direction of the action plan for the next three to five years. NFUS is using its survey to help inform its response to NatureScot.
The union is also taking the opportunity to remind members that the deadline for annual applications to the Sea Eagle Management Scheme is September 18.
The Union’s Environment and Land Use Committee chair Angus MacFadyen, a hill farmer near Oban said: “Since their reintroduction, there has been a growing impact of the birds on sheep flocks in the west coast, including Skye, with many farmers and crofters experiencing significant year-on-year losses to white-tailed eagles, particularly in areas where there is a lack of alternative prey. This survey will give us a vital up-to-date snapshot of what impact the birds may be having on the businesses and livelihoods of those affected. We know, for some, serious agricultural damage is occurring.
“Review of the existing action plan presents an opportunity to ensure it is fit for purpose for the next three to five years and information gathered through our survey will help inform our response to the NatureScot review. Our survey not only looks at the impacts but asks for views on scheme management, structure and future funding.
“Farmers and crofters experiencing sea eagle impacts on their livestock are reminded of the opportunity to join the management scheme, which offers support for adapting livestock management and for trialling prevention measures. We remind those affected that the deadline for annual applications is 18 September.
“NFUS remains committed through the collaborative approach with Scottish Government, NatureScot and other stakeholders to find practical solutions to the management of White-tailed Eagles and we will share with them the results of our survey.”
Those farmers and crofters impacted by birds are asked to complete the NFUS survey at: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/8NTL2DN
The deadline for responses is September 7.
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