Cairngorms National Park reveals new raptor project

Cairngorms National Park is recruiting a Raptor Conservation Officer.

The three-year project is dedicated to achieving healthy populations of raptors in the national park. The project officer will work closely with partners and stakeholders including the Raptor Study Groups, RSPB, Estates and land management organisations, building a strong evidence-based partnership approach to raptor conservation in the Cairngorms. Building Trust, sharing knowledge, best practice and celebrating positive action will be a key part of the role. 

The successful candidate will help protect boost the populations of raptors such as Golden Eagle (Debbie Borthwick).

The Raptor Officer will finalise the Cairngorms raptor conservation strategy and will work with partners and stakeholders to deliver a program of work to secure the future of species such as Golden Eagle, Hen Harrier and Peregrine Falcon in the park.

The project will develop robust monitoring and evidence to inform a baseline understanding of current populations, informing targeted conservation measures to support and increase raptor numbers.

Sarah Henshall, Head of Conservation for Cairngorms National Park, said: "The Cairngorms is a very important place for raptors and the National Park Partnership Plan commits to reducing wildlife crime as a constraint on raptor numbers and range occupancy. It also outlines measures to increase the amount of sustainably managed moorland to ensure greater species diversity.

"A vital role of this project is to develop a strong partnership approach to raptor conservation and raise awareness about raptors and their importance. This will be undertaken through a program of engagement and communication with land managers and wider stakeholders including communities within the Park."