Focus falls on famous sea eagle chicks
Birds of prey draw visitors to island and boost local economy
Published:
THE first photograph of Mull's famous sea eagle chicks has been taken by Forestry Commission Scotland rangers during the birds' ringing.
Both chicks, which are the current stars of the Mull eagle watch at Loch Frisa, are 10-weeks-old and have become a popular attraction for visitors viewing them from a hide.
The eager parent birds, 17-year-old Frisa and 15-year-old Skye, returned to feed the chicks immediately after the ringing.
Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham said: “Sea eagles are magnificent birds of prey and once you've seen one you'll never forget their size. They are immense. It's very good news that the chicks are thriving and the eagle watch hide has become such an important attraction for tourists.”
Mull eagle watch attracts around 5,000 visitors a year to the hide with all income going to the Mull and Iona Community Trust to distribute to local good causes and to assist in the creation of a seasonal ranger post.
Last year, more than £10,000 was received from visitors to the hide and sea eagles on Mull are thought to give a £2million a year boost to the area’s economy.
Stuart Maidment, of Forestry Commission Scotland, said: “The two chicks look fit and healthy and will be in the nest for another few weeks.
“Once they fledge, visitors will be able to watch them take their first, tentative flights across the loch and we expect them to stay in the area well into the autumn.”
