Golden eagle disappearance in the Borders investigated by police

Merrick the golden eagle was brought to the south of Scotland last year to help boost numbers

Police are treating the disappearance of a satellite-tagged golden eagle in the Borders as suspicious.

The missing bird, named Merrick, came to the area last year through the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project.

She was last seen on 12 October in an area to the west of Fountainhall.

Police Scotland's Det Sgt David Lynn said that after a full search they believed Merrick had come to harm. He said the force worked with other groups to protect the "magnificent birds".

A major conservation project is ongoing in the south of Scotland to boost golden eagle numbers.

Earlier this year it reported that the population had reached record levels.

The disappearance of the bird is being treated as suspicious

Five years ago, there were only three breeding pairs left in the region but numbers have now reached nearly 50.

The loss of Merrick is a setback to the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project.

Michael Clarke, who chairs the group, said: "The disappearance of any golden eagle is extremely upsetting, but particularly when there is evidence to suggest that they have come to harm under suspicious circumstances.

"The project's translocated eagles have captured the hearts and minds of many people, including children, who will all share in our utter shock, disappointment and sadness at the nature of Merrick's disappearance."

He said they remained "more resolved than ever" to ensure the bird population in southern Scotland continued to thrive.

Police Scotland said it was working with other organisations to gather information and establish the circumstances of the disappearance.

The force urged anyone who could help with their inquiries to come forward.

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The Scottish Gamekeepers' Association said it condemned wildlife crime in all its forms.

"Everyone who has supported SOSGEP will be extremely disappointed at this news," said chairman Alex Hogg.

"As an organisation our support is reflected in the fact that 23 of the project's 28 donor eaglets have come from gamekeeper-managed estates.

"We remain proud of that involvement and will continue our support."

Rural business organisation Scottish Land and Estates said it was "hugely disappointed" to hear of the disappearance.

Dee Ward, who chairs the group, added: "We're incredibly proud of the key role estates, land managers and gamekeepers have played in the success of SOSGEP.

"This incident makes us all the more passionate about continuing that support."

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