Probe after golden eagle found in Borders with shotgun injuries

Police are appealing for information after a golden eagle, aged four, was found injured in southern Scotland. The bird was discovered by a gamekeeper on 15 January at an estate in Stanhope, near Tweedsmuir. The eagle, named Hamlet, was fitted with a satellite tracking device and had been relocated from the Outer Hebrides to this region in 2023 as part of a conservation effort aimed at increasing local golden eagle populations.

A veterinary examination confirmed that Hamlet had sustained shotgun pellet injuries to his wing. After receiving treatment, the eagle was released back into the wild. Experts reviewing the tracking data have concluded that the shooting likely occurred during the first week of January. Authorities believe the incident happened somewhere between Stanhope and Glenbreck, near the A701 road, which connects Broughton to Moffat.

Detective Sergeant David Lynn expressed his disappointment over the incident, stating, “It is extremely disappointing that we are investigating another golden eagle persecution crime.” He appealed to the public, emphasizing that only a few people would have the means, opportunity, and motive to carry out such an act. Police are collaborating with the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit in their ongoing investigation and urged anyone with information to come forward.

The eagle’s relocation was part of the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project (SSGEP), which has been successful in increasing eagle numbers in the region. Michael Clarke, a Dumfriesshire farmer and chair of Restoring Upland Nature—the organization now supporting the SSGEP—expressed relief that Hamlet was healthy enough to fly despite the “traumatic shooting.” Clarke condemned the incident strongly, calling it a “deplorable wildlife crime” and insisting those responsible should feel ashamed. Similarly, Ross Ewing from Scottish Land and Estates commended the prompt action of the gamekeepers who found the injured bird. Conor Kelly, one of the gamekeepers, hopes Hamlet will make a full recovery and stressed the importance of maintaining suitable habitats for golden eagles, urging anyone with information to assist the authorities

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