Re-introduction of the golden eagle into the Republic of Ireland Original Research Article

The golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) became extinct in the Republic of Ireland in about 1912. Historical evidence suggests that, in the early nineteenth century, the population exceeded 50 pairs. It is thought that the extinction was a consequence of persecution and habitat change. Because there seems little chance of natural recolonisation a re-introduction programme has been developed. It is intended to release up to 15 birds per year for 5 years, starting in 2001. Single chicks will be obtained from Scottish nests with twins. The ways in which this project adheres to the six main IUCN re-introduction criteria are addressed. Two simulation models are described. The first, GEPM, demonstrates that the removal of chicks from Scottish nests should not have a detrimental effect on the Scottish population. The second model predicts the probable home range occupancy if only 12 birds are released each year. It is expected that between 3 and 13 ranges will be occupied by 2007. The imprecision in this estimate is a consequence of uncertainty about juvenile survival rates. The rationale behind our reintroduction scheme is outlined to stimulate debate about the development of good practice.