Golden eagle killed in first recorded wind turbine incident in Scotland
The Veterinary Investigation Center at Scotland’s Rural College in Dumfries conducted various tests, which found the bird to be in good condition and concluded that his fatal injuries were "typical of those associated with a wind turbine strike."
FILE – Eagle seeks help from deputy to escape Arizona heat
Bodycam footage shows a police officer rescuing the eagle, which landed under his vehicle and appeared to be in distress. (Courtesy: Mohave County Sheriff’s Office)
GALLOWAY, Scotland – A golden eagle in Scotland has been killed by a wind turbine, the first recorded incident of its kind in the area.
The South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project confirmed the raptor's death in the Galloway region following a recent pathological investigation on Monday.
The Veterinary Investigation Center at Scotland’s Rural College in Dumfries said it conducted various tests, which found the bird to be in good condition and concluded that his fatal injuries were "typical of those associated with a wind turbine strike."
'LARGEST RAPTOR FOOTPRINTS EVER' FOUND IN CHINA
The golden eagle is the most widely distributed species of eagle. (Avalon/Universal Images Group / Getty Images)
Up until his death, the 3-year-old male, dubbed Sparky, had been closely monitored by the conservation initiative aimed at helping bolster the region's golden eagle population.
Researchers first discovered the bird's remains near a turbine base on Aug. 22 with his wing detached.
WARNING: The following photo contains graphic content. Viewer discretion is advised.
Researchers first discovered the bird's remains near a turbine base on Aug. 22 with his wing detached. (South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project)
"Our satellite tagging system allowed us to immediately detect that something untoward had happened to Sparky at Windy Rig Windfarm in Galloway," said Cat Barlow, project manager of the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project. "This ensured investigators could quickly recover the body before weather and wild scavengers destroyed any evidence."
Without the team’s surveillance and ability to respond promptly, Barlow said they may never have known what led to Sparky’s death.
"Gathering knowledge from the satellite tags is vital to ensuring the continued protection of golden eagles, and further reinforces the importance of our work to monitor golden eagles in southern Scotland," Barlow adds.