How and why has the number of golden eagles fluctuated in Scotland?
Since the early 20th century golden eagles in Scotland have recovered, having reached a low point of perhaps as few as 150 pairs. Now there are over 420 pairs and the population is stable — confirmed by three national censuses in the past 20 years. There are still threats and the population is yet prevented from reaching its full potential. Although fully protected by law since 1953, eagles in Scotland are still killed illegally each year.
