Golden eagles thrive with record breeding success in Sweden

Sweden’s golden eagle population saw unprecedented breeding success last year, with 280 successful nests producing nearly 350 chicks, according to a new report by public broadcaster SVT Nyheter.

The 2025 inventory, coordinated by the Swedish Museum of Natural History, recorded the highest number of successful nests since monitoring began. Researchers attributed the surge to favourable weather and abundant food sources, particularly small rodents, which are critical for the birds’ survival.

“It was a good year with both advantageous weather and strong food availability,” said Jessica Åsbrink, national coordinator of the inventory at the museum.

Most successful nests were concentrated in northern Sweden and on the island of Gotland. Out of 316 registered nesting attempts, 280 succeeded—a figure Åsbrink called “very encouraging.” While improved monitoring methods may partly explain the increase, she noted a clear upward trend over time.

Golden eagle breeding numbers fluctuate annually due to their dependence on weather and prey availability, but last year’s results mark a significant high.