A PIONEERING golden eagles project in the south of Scotland is facing the “imminent threat” of being wound down – unless £400,000 can be raised.

The South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project has seen record numbers of the iconic bird established in the region.

But with its current funding due to run out at the end of the year, an urgent appeal has been issued to secure its long-term future.

It is being supported by stars of the screen including Springwatch presenter Iolo Williams and Vikings: Valhalla actor David Oakes.

Project chair Michael Clarke said: “The UK is facing an unprecedented nature-climate crisis, and restoration projects like ours are now more important than ever to reverse biodiversity decline.

“We have had incredible success in the south of Scotland thanks to the support of community, partners and funders.

“With enough new public donations, we can take these learnings to restore this iconic species to other areas of the UK.

“There has been incredible excitement at our initial success, with golden eagles thriving across southern skies, and communities across the region benefitting environmentally, socially and culturally.

“We’d love to keep this momentum going, but the public appeal we have launched today is absolutely crucial to making this a reality.”

The initiative was initially due to conclude this year, but bold new plans have been developed to harness its ‘unprecedented success’.

The project team revealed on Monday, September 9, that they plan to launch as a standalone charity named RUN, which stands for Restoring Upland Nature, in 2025.

They hope that other areas of the UK, where the species has been missing for generations, can benefit from their groundbreaking learnings and techniques.

Project manager Cat Barlow sad: “We have great plans to build on and extend our groundbreaking work so that other parts of the UK benefit from the return of golden eagles. But we can only do this with public support.

“Our current funding runs out at the end of this year, and we will need to wind down very soon unless we can raise more funds.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has, and can, support the vital work to restore golden eagles to the areas they once thrived.

“Every donation made will play a key part in reversing the UK’s biodiversity decline and ensuring current and future generations across the UK can experience that incredible sense of excitement – and hope – on seeing golden eagles soar.”

Six years ago there were fewer than 10 eagles in the south of Scotland, according to the project. Now there are nearly 50 – the highest number the region has seen for more than 300 years.

To help secure the future of the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project as it becomes RUN, donate, or register interest in becoming a supporting partner, via: goldeneaglessouthofscotland.co.uk