New Forest Wildlife Park has welcomed two white-tailed sea eagles, marking an exciting first for the Hampshire attraction. The birds—a three-year-old male and four-year-old female—arrived in early May and are now settling into their custom-built aviary at the far end of Wallaby Wood.
Bred in captivity and siblings by birth, the eagles required a carefully managed introduction to their new surroundings. The park’s keepers initially closed off the area and wrapped the enclosure in green netting to allow the birds privacy as they adjusted. Over the following weeks, more of the aviary was opened to both the birds and the public. Visitors can now walk the full trail and view the eagles in their expansive new habitat.
Designed to exceed species-specific requirements, the new aviary includes a variety of perching options, with both open and sheltered spaces. This gives the birds the flexibility to sunbathe, take cover from the wind and rain, or sit out in light showers, which they often enjoy in warmer weather. Despite their powerful wingspans of up to 2.5 metres, white-tailed sea eagles spend up to 90 percent of their time perched, making thoughtful enclosure design key to their wellbeing. Weighing between 4.3 and 5.5 kilograms, the white-tailed sea eagle is Britain’s largest bird of prey. The species forms lifelong pair bonds and is known for its broad, fingered wings and wedge-shaped tail. Though often confused with buzzards or golden eagles, its massive size and distinctive silhouette set it apart.
White-tailed sea eagles were once extinct in the UK but have made a remarkable comeback through reintroduction programmes. Today, they can be seen in parts of Scotland and on the Isle of Wight, where a growing population is being monitored as part of wider conservation efforts. The species currently holds Amber status under the UK’s Birds of Conservation Concern, reflecting the ongoing need for protection.
The arrival of these sea eagles at New Forest Wildlife Park highlights the importance of conservation education and offers visitors a rare chance to observe one of Europe’s most iconic raptors up close.
Visit newforestwildlifepark.co.uk for more information.