Published Date:
11 March 2009
By Jenny Haworth
FARMERS and crofters are to be paid thousands of pounds for trying to protect their lambs from sea eagles, and to help improve habitats for the birds of prey, under a project by Scottish Natural Heritage.
The Sea Eagle Management Scheme is available to land managers on the west coast of Scotland within the territory of breeding sea eagles.
A £12,000 pot of cash will be available to farmers who report sightings of sea eagles, and help protect them from disturbance or persecution, such as by reporting thefts of eggs to police.
They could also be paid up to £1,500 a year for measures that cut the chances of the birds of prey taking their lambs, such as by extra shepherding during the sea eagle breeding season.
Up to £1,000 a year will also be offered to farmers and crofters who carry out work to help attract sea eagles to their land, such as by providing food for the birds.
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Last Updated:
10 March 2009 9:59 PM
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Source:
The Scotsman
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Location:
Edinburgh
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Related Topics:
Birds of prey