Where eagles dare

IT IS a remarkable photograph - capturing the moment a golden eagle soars beside a mountain clutching a lamb in its talons.While normally preying on small mammals such as rabbits and hares, the birds have been accused by some farmers of targeting livestock.

They claim the dramatic picture, right, taken on Mull vindicates their argument that the iconic and protected birds of prey are a threat to sheep numbers and their livelihoods.

However, conservationists are concerned that the image will fuel a recent spate of bird of prey poisonings. Last year three golden eagles were found poisoned on the Skibo Castle Estate in Sutherland.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Scotland claims eagles pick up dead or dying lambs.

It is not clear whether the animal in the photograph was alive. The bird-watcher who took it did not want to be named because of fears that it could reveal the location of the eagle's nest.

He said the picture was taken last May when he and his wife were on Mull, near its highest point, Ben More.

"Suddenly, this massive eagle swooped into view," he said. "We could see it was carrying something beneath it and my wife, who had binoculars, thought it was a mountain hare.

"As it got closer, I said to her 'That's no hare, it's a lamb'.

"It was a very unusual sight and a bit sad for the lamb. But it's nature, and that's what happens. It's certainly a sight that neither of us will forget."

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Donald MacLean, a sheep farmer with a 10,000-acre property nearby, said that the lamb is likely to have come from his 1,7000-strong flock.

"This is a hugely significant photograph, catching the eagle in the act," said Mr MacLean. "It proves eagles are carrying off lambs, evidence that farmers need to make their point."

Mull has one of largest population of eagles in the UK. Research from Scottish Natural Heritage suggests that white-tailed eagles, the biggest and strongest eagle in the UK, kill about 35 lambs a year on the island. SNH runs the Mull Eagle Scheme, which provides support to hill-farmers on how to protect sheep.

James Reynolds, RSPB Scotland spokesman, said that the population of golden eagles in Scotland was not growing despite efforts to protect them.

"The main reason is illegal persecution," he said. "It's very easy for these kinds of photos to be used in an alarmist fashion.

"Golden eagles and white-tailed eagles are one of Scotland's best assets. Scotland is the only place in the UK that you can see them, they bring in tourists and are an indication of the health of our eco-system."

National Farmers Union head of rural policy Jonnie Hall said: "It is an unequivocal fact that eagles take live lambs. This is a major concern for hill farmers."