Eagles Roar Back: Ireland's Skies See Majestic Return

White-tailed eagles, once extinct in Ireland, are now thriving in the country's skies. A comprehensive reintroduction program, initiated in 2007, released 245 young eagles by its conclusion in August 2025. This effort has led to an estimated wild population of 150 birds, including 17 known breeding pairs.

The species, also known as white-tailed sea eagles, faced extinction in Ireland by 1912 due to human persecution, but conservation efforts began in 2007 with the release of 100 eagles from Norway. A second phase of the program, launched in 2020, further bolstered the population with satellite-tagged birds.

Recent successes include a pair successfully breeding for the fifth consecutive year at Killarney's Lough Léin in July 2026, with two young eagles fledging. Despite ongoing threats like illegal poisoning and avian influenza, the population is considered self-sustaining. Conservationists continue to work with local communities to ensure coexistence between eagles and farmers.

The white-tailed eagle is one of Europe's largest birds of prey, with a wingspan up to 2.5 meters. They primarily feed on fish but also consume waterbirds, rabbits, and carrion. Their return to Ireland signifies a remarkable conservation achievement.