Rare white-tailed eagle spotted in Hampshire

An endangered bird of prey normally only seen in Britain in the far north west of Scotland has been spotted on a farm in Hampshire.

Photo: RICHARD FORD www.digitalwildlife.co.uk

The rare white-tailed eagle has a 9ft wingspan

Bird-watching enthusiasts from across the country are flocking to Old Basing, near Basingstoke, to catch a glimpse of the rare white-tailed eagle.

It is thought that the giant apex predator, which has a 9ft wingspan, arrived from Scandinavia in search of a more abundant hunting ground.

Paul Outhwaite, an RSPB spokesman, said: “It is extremely unusual to see this bird so far south in Britain or indeed anywhere outside northern Scotland.

“It is the most spectacular bird to see in the air – they’re colloquially known as ‘flying barn doors’ because of their sheer size.”

He added it is likely that the eagle, which usually feeds on fish and other birds, crossed the North Sea to escape the bitter winter in Scandinavia.

Experts believe the bird may have settled in the area due to the diverse habitat, which also boasts several rare bird species, and other raptors including red kites.

Hamish Wardrop, a farmer where the eagle has taken up residence, said: “This shows that a working farm can provide an excellent habitat for rare birdlife.

“Sadly, the council has earmarked the area as a potential site for 9,000 new homes. It would be tragic to lose such a rich slice of countryside.

The white-tailed sea eagle, as the species is also sometimes referred to, was hunted to extinction in Britain in the 19th century.

Although re-introduced in Scotland through breeding programmes, it is still included on the RSPB’s Red list of UK birds because of the long-term threat to the population.

First Published: www.telegraph.co.uk
Read More: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/wildlife/8357633/Rare-white-tailed-eagle-spotted-in-Hampshire.html