Tories advocate compensation for damaged caused by wildlife

The party spokesperson for rural affairs, Tim Eagle, argued that since the reintroduction of white-tailed eagles and beavers, farmers and crofters were seeing an increase in incidents relating to the animals. 

A freedom of information request, by the party, revealed NatureScot have been contacted by farmers 575 times since 2019 about trouble with beavers.

NatureScot are Scotland’s nature agency and are a non-departmental of the Scottish Government. 

Mr Eagle added: “The SNP have been painfully slow to make any real changes to their current scheme despite organisations such as the National Sheep Association raising significant concerns.

"Whilst I recognise the importance of the natural environment, and that some landowners are supportive of reintroductions such as beaver, I am also aware that they can undermine river banks and cause flooding in fields. 

The Highlands and Islands MSP also stated that there were reports of white-tailed eagles taking lambs, with the problem being particularly prevalent on the west coast and islands. 

Further arguments were made for a package that is "flexible and adaptable," with the Scottish Tories emphasising the need for local residents to have a clear say in developments.

Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said:

“The SNP Scottish Government is taking affirmative action to support our livestock farmers affected by predation. In 2026/27, the Scottish Government has committed £1 million to the Sea Eagle Management Scheme to support farmers and crofters affected by predation.

"In stark contrast to the policies of successive Labour and Tory UK Governments the SNP continues to provide direct support to our farmers with the most generous direct support package in the UK. 

"This support demonstrates our commitment to helping farmers and crofters manage the pressures that come with living and working alongside wildlife.”