Lewis Windfarm development threatens Golden Eagles

BBC News reports that the proposed wind farm development being considered by the Island of Lewis Council may pose a serious threat to Golden eagle numbers. An environmental statement produced by the wind farm developer Scottish and Southern Energy (SEE) reports that three birds could be killed a year. The Golden eagle is detailed on the Amber List of birds of conservation concern and is granted the highest level of protection under UK law. There are estimated to be sixty breeding pairs of Golden Eagle on Lewis.

Campaigners opposed to the wind farm development have also raised concern about the potential of peat slides occurring in the area where the wind turbines would be erected.

"The eagle kill is pretty horific, as is the threat of peat slide," said Catriona Campbell of anti-windfarm group Moorland Without Turbines.

The RSPB have also commented on the danger - not only to the Golden eagle but also to sea eagles in the area.

To read the full article visit BBC News Online : http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/highlands_and_islands/6259516.stm

You may also be interested in the following links:

• Scottish and Southern Energy
• RSPB
• Moorland Without Turbines

The Wilderness Foundation UK will continue to raise awareness of the potential threat posed by wind farm developments created in areas of wilderness, wild land and where damage would be caused to important wildlife habitats.