New partner found by golden eagle

The female golden eagle was poisoned in the Borders last year

A golden eagle chick has hatched in the Scottish Borders nearly a year after one half of the only breeding pair in the region was poisoned.

There was worldwide condemnation in August 2007 after a 10-year-old female bird was killed in Peeblesshire.

Experts described it as a "tragedy" for the region but it has now emerged the male eagle has another partner.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds said it was "fantastic" a new breeding female had been found.

A Scottish Government environment spokesman confirmed the arrival of the new chick.

It is vital that the local community help to protect these birds and any illegal activity must be reported immediately Doreen Graham SSPCA

"After last year's horrific killing we are delighted to find a breeding pair is now established," he said.

"We hope to see the eagles and their chick flourish over the coming months."

Duncan Orr Ewing, head of species and land management with RSPB Scotland, said it was a step in the right direction.

"It is fantastic that the eagle which was illegally killed last year has been replaced by a new breeding female so quickly," he said.

"However, the Borders could comfortably support at least 10 pairs of golden eagles, yet this remains the only breeding pair.

"This eagle chick offers hope for the future, one where Scotland's wildlife can co-exist with mankind's actions in the countryside."

'Iconic bird'

Doreen Graham, spokesperson of the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said she was "delighted" by the news.

"The habitat in the Scottish Borders is ideal for birds of prey but sadly due to recent persecutions the area has been rejected as a release site for other species," she said.

"It is vital that the local community help to protect these birds and any illegal activity must be reported immediately.

"It was the shame of Scotland that such an iconic bird was poisoned illegally last year."

Lothian and Borders Police are still investigating the golden eagle killing.

Sgt Helen Birrell said: "Enquiries are still continuing and we would welcome anyone coming forward with information.

"We treat wildlife crime very seriously."