Lost species' disappear across UK in suspicious circumstances

"Three white-tailed eagles, including a chick representing the first wild-born generation in England for centuries, have disappeared under highly suspicious circumstances. Authorities are now appealing for public assistance as police investigate the fate of the birds, integral to a crucial reintroduction programme. The satellite tags of two of the eagles one being the recently fledged youngster were discovered discarded near their last known locations, both having been deliberately severed."

"The third bird's tracker has ceased transmitting data, with no sightings reported since. These magnificent raptors, often dubbed 'flying barn doors' due to their impressive 8ft (2.4m) wingspan, were once prevalent across southern England until persecution led to their eradication by the 18th century. A collaborative effort between Forestry England and the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation initiated their reintroduction on the Isle of Wight in 2019, releasing 45 white-tailed eagles to date."

"The project has seen significant success, with several breeding pairs forming and six chicks born in the wild in England a milestone not achieved since the 1780s. White-tailed eagles nicknamed flying barn doors because of their wingspan of up to 8ft (2.4m) were once widespread in southern England until the 18th century, when persecution led to them being wiped out in the region (Laurie Campbell/PA) The birds, which are the UK's largest bird of prey, have previously been successfully reintroduced in Scotland."

Three white-tailed eagles, including a chick from the first wild-born generation in England for centuries, have vanished under suspicious circumstances. Satellite tags from two birds, including the recently fledged youngster, were found discarded near last known locations with deliberate severing. The third bird's tracker stopped transmitting and no sightings have occurred. The birds are part of a reintroduction on the Isle of Wight begun in 2019 by Forestry England and the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation; 45 eagles have been released to date, producing several breeding pairs and six wild-born chicks. Authorities warn that targeting could jeopardize long-term project success and seek public assistance while police investigate.

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