Police have launched an investigation after 2 of the Isle of Wight’s White-tailed Eagles were found dead.
Britain’s largest bird of prey was reintroduced into the wild from Bouldnor near Yarmouth in 2019. Since then, the Eagles have been seen soaring high across the Isle of Wight and the whole of the country.
Sadly, 2 of the birds have recently been found dead, prompting a criminal investigation.
Post mortem and toxicological examinations will now take place in a bid to identify the cause of death. It is possible that the birds have succumbed to avian influenza.
A spokesman for Dorset Police has said:
“Sadly, two of the Sea Eagle England Isle of Wight reintroduced white-tailed eagles have recently been recovered dead on multi-agency operations in the south of England including one in Dorset in late January.
“An investigation is underway to ascertain the causes of death of both birds, who are undergoing post mortem and toxicological examination.
“These birds are extremely rare and we ask the public to be vigilant and to report any information they may have relating to the death of these birds to Dorset Police at [email protected], quoting ocurrence 55220015571 with your contact details. You can contact us in confidence. Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.
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3 other eagles are currently present in Dorset.
Hope we are kept updated on the cause of death following investigations.
so sad, whetevr the cause…
So sad, hopefully they will tell us the results of the tests
How very sad. Worst news I’ve read for a while.
So sad, very beautiful birds. Let’s hope it was not deliberate as if it is, that’s like everything else going on on the island at the moment. Hope we get to find out what happened?
The report says they were found in Dorset and it’s Dorset police investigating. They may have a Facebook page for updates.
What are these less publicised animal and bird deaths?
The vast majority of these birds die in their first year from a variety of reasons. Jumping to conclusions about illegal persecution is pointless. Let’s wait until the official cause of death is established.
Please read the article. They were released in 2019! Was not their first year.
Could have been bird flu, they are at the top of their respective food chain.
I know a few farmers and some have some very old views on these birds and other reintroduced creatures.
How many are on iow at present?anyone?
Always on lookout znd would love too see one.
Sad news tbf
How very, very sad awaiting results.
ALL THE SMALL MAMMALS RABBITS AND BIRDS WILL BE SLEEPING A LITTLE SOUNDER BUT IF IT’S FOUL PLAY LETS HOPE THE CULPRITS ARE CAUGHT
As against humans responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths nay millions for our pork chops and chicken nuggets, then throw half of it away in our food waste bins; erm who is the more noble or worthy of life?
Please don’t shout, Rodney. Try to use your indoor voice.
So sad what beautiful birds….I hope they get the results soon and if possible re introduce another pair.