Scheme to bring back sea eagles

Sea eagles could be seen again in East Anglia (© R Saunders)

Sea eagles could be reintroduced to East Anglia after being wiped out more than 200 years ago.

A feasibility study by ornithologists has shown the giant bird of prey could thrive in Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex.

Wildlife trusts, conservation groups and farmers have been consulted and said they would welcome the project.

Natural England ornithologist Richard Saunders said: "We want to introduce birds from Poland where they thrive in habitats similar to East Anglia."

Natural England has spent £20,000 looking at possible lowland, wetland and wildlife park habitats.

Mr Saunders sees the reintroduction of the birds with a wing span of up to 8ft 6in (245cm) as a major conservation step and a tourist attraction.

"Sea eagles were re-introduced to the west coast of Scotland in the mid-70s and have been doing very well there.

"They are a big tourist attraction and although conservation is our main reason, we are also looking at reconnecting people with nature."

This species could be used to promote the wildlife-rich landscapes of East Anglia and to reconnect people with their local environment Richard Saunders

The birds, which are also known as white-tailed eagles, are even bigger than the golden eagle.

Mr Saunders and his team based in Norwich, Norfolk, have met groups of farmers, anglers and shooters to discuss the possible programme.

The birds in Poland live close to people, farms and areas where wild fowl gather.

"This species could be used to promote the wildlife-rich landscapes of East Anglia and to reconnect people with their local environment," said Mr Saunders.

Obtaining licences

"The birds nest in trees and in winter are very social animals with groups of 20 or more together and this is quite a sight to see.

"The presence of the birds would encourage activities involving volunteers, local schools, 'life-long learning' and the promotion of green space and its importance to both health and tourism.

"RSPB research has found that white-tailed eagle-related tourism on Mull contributes £1.5m a year to the local economy."

The next stage in the project is to obtain licences from the governments in England and Poland.

It will also cost Natural England between £60,000 and £100,000 a year to reintroduce the birds with the help of the Suffolk Wildlife Trust, the RSPB and Anglian Water.

The RSPB has reserves near the coast at Titchwell and Breydon Water in Norfolk, Minsmere in Suffolk and the River Stour estuary in Essex.