A previous petition (PE783) was submitted on the same subject in 2004 by Mr James Reynolds after a poll in the Scotsman newspaper voted the Golden Eagle the country’s most loved bird.
The petition was referred to the Enterprise and Culture Committee, which was unable to identify a formal process to create national symbols for Scotland. No further action was taken or a conclusion reached prior to the 2007 election.
The golden Eagle has been included in Scottish Natural Heritage’s Big 5 for the Year of Natural Scotland, demonstrating the cultural importance of this well-loved species. This will also provide some measure of public support.
http://www.snh.gov.uk/enjoying-the-outdoors/year-of-natural-scotland-2013/scotlands-big-5-celebrations/
RSPB has been participating in Scottish Environment LINK’s Species Champions programme with Rhoda Grant being the Species Champion for the Golden Eagle.