White-tailed eagles are set to be released in Exmoor National Park as part of a reintroduction program for the UK's largest bird of prey, despite concerns raised by local farmers.

The eagles, which can have wingspans of up to eight feet, were previously extinct in England but have been successfully reintroduced to Scotland and the Isle of Wight in recent years. The Exmoor release represents the latest phase of conservation efforts to restore the species across the UK.

Farmers in the region have expressed concerns that the reintroduction could pose risks to their livestock, particularly young animals. The white-tailed eagle primarily feeds on fish and waterfowl, but farmers worry about potential predation on lambs and other small farm animals.

Conservation groups argue that the eagles play an important role in the ecosystem and that successful reintroductions elsewhere have shown minimal conflict with farming activities. The birds are known to be opportunistic feeders but typically avoid human-populated areas when hunting.

The reintroduction program involves careful monitoring of the released birds and coordination with local communities to address any conflicts that may arise. Similar programs have included compensation schemes for farmers who experience confirmed livestock losses.