Background The lesser spotted eagle (Aquila pomarina) is a medium-size migrating eagle found in central, eastern and south-east Europe, as well as eastwards to Iran. More than 95% of its global breeding range is in Europe, where some 19 000 pairs breed. The species has an unfavourable conservation status in Europe and is listed in the Annex I of the Birds Directive. The lesser spotted eagle breeds across the whole of Lithuania. Its breeding density varies significantly through the country, with the greatest density recorded in central and north-western regions. More than 10% of the European population breeds in Lithuania, while The Baltic States, Belarus and Poland hold more than half of European population. The Lithuanian lesser spotted eagle population suffered a decline of more than 20% between 1980 and 2006. This was the result of habitat alterations and the loss of nesting sites (caused by forestry operations and drainage), as well as hunting activities during migration. Objectives The main goal of the Eagles in the Forest project is to protect the nesting sites of at least 10% of Lithuania's lesser spotted eagle’s population (more than 200 pairs) from direct destruction and the indirect effects of timber harvesting. The project also aims to ensure the long-term favorable status of nesting habitats for the entire population through carrying out protection measures in line with the ecological needs of the species, drawing up an action plan and new planning schemes for all SPAs designated for the lesser spotted eagle in the country. Information on the nests and their protection requirements will be distributed to all relevant stakeholders to avoid the deliberate and unintentional destruction of nests during forestry operations. The project will also focus on raising awareness among the general public and target stakeholders of conservation issues. Expected results: During preparatory actions nest-trees will be located and evaluated in order to assess the conservation status of more than 200 pairs of lesser spotted eagles; A comprehensive report will provide information about the exact location of each nesting site and the restrictions that apply. Relevant stakeholders will be informed to ensure nesting sites have the correct legal protection status; The quality of 80 nesting sites of lesser spotted eagle pairs will be improved; An action plan will be drawn up for six lesser spotted eagle SPAs. This will be approved by the environment ministry; A wide range of awareness-raising activities is planned, including stakeholder workshops, seminars for state forest enterprises, a mobile photo exhibition on the target species and the involvement of the local, regional and national media.