The white-tailed eagles in Denmark is on the rise, nearly reaching 200 breeding pairs in 2025, with a record-setting 231 chicks successfully leaving the nest this year.
Record-Breaking Breeding Season
The white-tailed eagles in Denmark, the largest bird of prey, continues its dramatic comeback after being absent from the country for 85 years. In 2025, a total of 186 breeding pairs produced 231 juveniles, the highest number ever recorded in a single season since consistent monitoring began in 1995. This milestone was achieved thanks to the efforts of hundreds of volunteer nest coordinators involved in DOF BirdLife’s “Project Eagle,” which tracks and analyzes the population of eagles in Denmark. It’s good news for Danish nature.
Following a stagnation period in 2023 and 2024 with only 149 pairs, the eagle population has rebounded due to stable reproductive conditions and the absence of bird flu outbreaks, which had previously impacted the breeding success. The widespread monitoring effort has played a key role in documenting this resurgence, allowing detailed tracking of nesting activity and chick survival. The eagles are doing well again.
Strongholds and Regional Variation
While white-tailed eagles in Denmark, are expanding their range, breeding success varies greatly across regions. The island of Funen continues to be the most important habitat, home to 37 breeding pairs and 48 fledglings in 2025. Elsewhere, southeastern regions like Lolland, Falster, South Funen, and Southeastern Jutland also serve as core habitats with consistently high eagle activity.
In contrast, northern and western Jutland, as well as the island of Bornholm, still see limited breeding activity. For instance, North Jutland and North West Jutland each hosted only eight breeding pairs, while Bornholm reported just two pairs and three fledglings.
Nationwide Spread and Breeding Potential
Although southeastern Denmark remains the stronghold of the white-tailed eagle, the species is gradually expanding its range into less populated regions. Experts suggest that areas around the fjords of western Jutland, the Limfjord region, and the lake-rich Viborg area offer strong potential for further colonization. Realizing this potential could push the national population to a sustainable level of 200 to 250 breeding pairs within the coming decades.
Despite the slow progress, especially in northern Jutland, conservationists believe the habitats are suitable, and expansion is only a matter of time. The eagles’ long lifespans and ability to recover from failed breeding years support this optimism.
Fluctuation Is Part of Nature
The latest uptick in breeding success follows two years of stagnation, illustrating the natural cycle of wildlife populations. In 2023, outbreaks of avian influenza likely contributed to reduced fledgling numbers. However, the threat appears to have subsided, allowing the population to regain its upward momentum in 2025.
Birds of prey such as the white-tailed eagle typically have long lifespans and can endure occasional failed seasons without experiencing long-term population decline. With continued monitoring and habitat protection, the future of eagles in Denmark looks promising.
Key Numbers from 2025
– 186 breeding pairs of white-tailed eagles recorded across Denmark
– 231 fledglings successfully left their nests, a new national record
Regionally, DOF BirdLife reports the following 2025 counts:
– Funen: 37 pairs / 48 fledglings
– South Zealand (Storstrøm South): 24 pairs / 24 fledglings
– North Zealand: 10 pairs / 14 fledglings
– Copenhagen region: 12 pairs / 18 fledglings
– North Jutland: 8 pairs / 9 fledglings
– West Jutland: 5 pairs / 10 fledglings
These numbers show hotspots of successful eagle breeding but also highlight areas such as northern and western Jutland where there is still room for population growth.
Looking Ahead
The white-tailed eagle’s resurgence is one of Denmark’s most successful wildlife recovery stories. After being absent for much of the 20th century, the species is now thriving due to targeted conservation efforts, monitoring, and public engagement.
With careful management, continued habitat protection, and the support of hundreds of volunteers, the Danish white-tailed eagle population is well on its way to achieving long-term stability and broader national distribution.
