A golden eagle. Photo: Maurice Koop

Police in the Highlands are investigating the death of a golden eagle near one of Scotland’s best known peaks.

The bird was found by a member of the public near Suilven in Sutherland. Officers from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds are helping Northern Constabulary with the incident. The cause of death is not yet known.

The carcass of the eagle has been sent to the Scottish Agricultural Science Agency laboratory in Inverness. A spokesperson for the police said: “At this time there is no evidence of poisoning, but police would like to hear from anyone who may have information regarding the eagle.”

Bob Elliot, senior investigations officer with RSPB Scotland, said: “We are saddened at the news that a dead golden eagle has been recovered south west of Suilven, near Lochinver.

“We hope there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding this death, not least because this area has a good track record with little wildlife crime. It is also a fantastic location to spot some of our most iconic wildlife, which makes a great contribution to the local economy.

“We are working closely with Northern Constabulary to establish the cause of death and are awaiting results from the Scottish Agricultural Science Agency, which is conducting tests on the carcass. Anybody with any information should ring Crimestoppers or the local police.”

Southern Scotland gained notoriety in 2007 when a golden eagle was poisoned in the Borders. Six buzzards were also poisoned by the banned chemical carbofuran, along with a number of crows and a magpie.

Anyone with information about the dead Suilven eagle is asked to contact police on 01463 715555. The Crimestoppers number, on which anonymous information can be left, is 0800 555 111.