A gamekeeper discovered the wounded bird, which had been moved from the Outer Hebrides, in a distressing state.
Authorities have commenced an investigation following the shooting of a golden eagle in the Scottish Borders. The incident came to light on Tuesday, January 20, after a gamekeeper on the Stanhope estate found the eagle injured five days prior.
The eagle was equipped with a satellite tracking device and was identified as Hamlet, a four-year-old golden eagle that had been relocated to the Scottish Borders from the Outer Hebrides in 2023.
Upon examination by a veterinarian, it was determined that Hamlet had been hit by a shotgun pellet, which damaged his wing. Fortunately, after receiving medical care, Hamlet fully recovered and was subsequently released back into the wild.
The investigation into the shooting has involved analyzing Hamlet’s tracking data and consulting raptor and veterinary specialists. The findings suggest that the shooting occurred during the first week of January 2026, in a location between Stanhope and Glenbreck, near the A701 Broughton to Moffat Road.
The local police force expressed significant disappointment over having to address another case of golden eagle persecution and are determined to track down those responsible. The UK National Wildlife Crime Unit is supporting the investigation, and officials are encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
“Very few people would have the means, opportunity, and motive to commit this crime,” stated Detective Sergeant David Lynn. “I would urge anyone with any information to contact us so we can find the individual responsible for shooting Hamlet.”
This investigation follows another disturbing case where a mutilated golden eagle was discovered dead in Stirling. Found on a forestry track near Loch Rusky in July 2024, the eagle had been wrapped in a plastic bag with parts of its body removed. This incident occurred not long after another satellite-tagged golden eagle named Merrick, introduced to the region in 2022, was shot and discarded.
The Chairman of the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project condemned these acts, stating that those responsible for such heinous wildlife crimes should feel deep shame.
Golden eagles are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, yet incidents of bird of prey persecution appear to be increasing. From 2009 to 2023, Scotland recorded 400 confirmed cases of such persecution. Species affected include Golden Eagles, Hen Harriers, and Goshawks, all of which hold significant national or international conservation status. Many of these crimes occur on lands managed for game bird shooting, with only a fraction being reported.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) found that most of these incidents are linked with areas managed for game shooting. In response, the Scottish Parliament passed the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act in 2024, which introduced licensing for all grouse shooting activities and enhanced protections for birds of prey.
Anyone with information about this latest incident is encouraged to contact Police Scotland at 101, quoting incident number 1221 of February 3, 2026, or to anonymously report details to Crimestoppers at 800 555 111.
Hi, I’m Benjamin, a member of the Sherburne County Citizen team. With a passion for writing and a deep interest in current affairs, I thoroughly enjoy bringing you the latest news and trends that affect our daily lives.
