Quote:
Originally Posted by Assyrian  Worth remembering here that the WTSE was (legally) originally wiped out to protect British foodstocks in the way of lambs during the First World War. Just because the birds are a different generation doesn't mean that they've changed habits and instinct that's accrued over centuries. The crofters know this and understandably feel a bit miffed that everyone now officially denies that the WTSE takes lambs at a time when they can't afford a single loss.
I personally think that everyone needs to accept that the eagles are back, they eat lambs and there should be compensation paid to the crofters on an annual basis - and this is what discussions/negotiations should be based on, not wasting time arguing over transmitters etc.
BTW I'm not linked with eaither camp, just a subject I've followed for a long time.
Chris |
You are incorrect in saying that everyone officially denies that eagles take lambs. It is widely accepted that they do, but not in the numbers that are suggested by the crofters.
It was hoped that the recent tagging experiment would back up the argument that the number of lambs taken is minimal, and indeed it does. But surprise surprise the crofters maintain that the tags “deter the eagles.” The argument therefore is set to continue – courtesy of the crofters. When faced with the evidence they refused to accept it, so any progress by meaningful discussion they have rendered impossible.
(And incidentally - many of these same crofters run B & B businesses that do very well out of the tourists that flock to see the WTSE - on Mull in particular, they are worth millions of pounds to the local economy.)