TWO of Britain’s largest and rarest birds of prey that were released into the south have been found dead.

A pair of the reintroduced white-tailed eagles have been found dead on multi-agency operations in the south of England, including one in Dorset in late January.

The birds, often spotted flying over the New Forest, were part of a reintroduction project.

The five-year reintroduction programme – which began with the release of a group of young eagles on the Isle of Wight in 2019 – continued in 2020 with a release of seven new birds.

An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of death of both birds.

The birds are undergoing post mortem and toxicological examination, Dorset Police said.

Now officers are appealing for information.

A spokesperson from Dorset Police said: "Sadly, two of the Sea Eagle England Isle of Wight reintroduced white-tailed eagles have recently been recovered dead on multi-agency operations in the south of England including one in Dorset in late January.

"An investigation is underway to ascertain the causes death of both birds, who are undergoing post mortem and toxicological examination.

"These birds are extremely rare and we ask the public to be vigilant and to report any information they may have relating to the death of these birds to Dorset Police at 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk, quoting occurrence 55220015571 with your contact details.

"You can contact us in confidence. Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org. Three other eagles are currently present in Dorset."

Message from the editor

Thank you for reading this story. We really appreciate your support.

Please help us to continue bringing you all the trusted news from your area by sharing this story or by following our Facebook page.