Have your say on sea eagles in Cumbria

A public consultation is under way to gauge opinions on reintroducing white-tailed eagles to Cumbria – but the proposal has stirred mixed reactions, particularly among the farming community.

The Cumbrian White-Tailed Eagle Project, led by a coalition including the University of Cumbria, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, RSPB, and local land managers, is inviting residents to complete an online questionnaire before 31 October 2025.

The survey forms part of a wider social feasibility study into restoring Britain’s largest bird of prey to the region.

See also: More support for Scottish farms affected by sea eagle predation

White-tailed eagles, also known as sea eagles, once soared across Cumbria but were driven to extinction by the late 18th century.

A pre-feasibility study in 2023 identified southern Cumbria as offering suitable habitat, with its coastal feeding areas, lakes, and woodlands.

Supporters argue the reintroduction would boost biodiversity and help reconnect isolated populations across the UK and Ireland.

However, farmers have voiced concerns about the potential impacts on livestock.

Producers in western Scotland, where the species has already been reintroduced, report increased predation of young lambs, and warn that similar issues could arise in Cumbria.

Farmers, landowners, and residents are encouraged to share their views via the online Cumbrian White-Tailed Eagle Project questionnaire.