White-tailed sea eagles spotted flying over London, Hampshire and Berkshire

Hundreds of people have spotted white-tailed sea eagles over the skies of London, Berkshire and Hampshire. 

The incredible raptors, which have a 2.5 metre wingspan, have been sighted across England in recent weeks following a re-introduction scheme on the Isle of Wight.

White-tailed sea eagles have not bred in the UK for centuries, although occasional sightings have occurred when they have travelled down from Scotland or west from mainland Europe.

Keep an eye on the skies of Richmond, Twickenham and Hounslow                                                                                                                                                               CREDIT: Yathin S Krishnappa

Keep an eye on the skies of Richmond, Twickenham and Hounslow CREDIT: Yathin S Krishnappa

That has all changed following a recent re-introduction scheme launched on the Isle of Wight last year. While some of the released birds have sadly died, others have travelled extensively around the country, touring everywhere from Essex to Yorkshire.

One was even spotted flying over Westminster - although it is unclear whether this was one of the re-introduced birds. Birdwatchers in Wokingham and Hampshire have also been treated to this giant of the skies.

Sea eagles used to be a common sight in the country more than 250 years ago, but were persecuted and hunted until extinct in England.

Thanks to a pioneering project by Forestry England and the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, there is new hope for these majestic birds. 

Six eaglets were released in the Isle of Wight as part of a five-year plan to eventually introduce 60 birds to the coasts, cliffs, woodlands and estuaries around the Solent. The project has been tracking the young birds as they make their first big trips around the UK. 

Keep your eyes peeled on the skies of Richmond, Twickenham, Hounslow and Isleworth.