Eyes to the skies. Ospreys return.

The first Osprey arrived home from Africa to nest at Kielder this morning. He’s now waiting patiently with a fish for a female to join him.

These spectacular fish-eating birds of prey have been soaring the skies of Northumberland since they returned and recolonised here in 2009, and last year was the 13th successive year of Ospreys breeding in Kielder Forest. During that time, the population has grown from 1 to 7 breeding pairs.

This morning’s arrival also means the return of Northumberland Wildlife Trust’s annual Osprey Watch. Each weekend, from Sunday 17 April to Saturday 14 August between 10.30am and 4:00pm visitors to Kielder will be offered views of nest activity via scopes, and nest cameras in a new cabin at Tower Knowe Visitor Centre.

Also new at Kielder this year are special Osprey cruises run by Wild Intrigue. On these mini-expeditions, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a short talk, diving into the fascinating history, ecology and local conservation of the Osprey, as you set sail on Kielder Waterside’s comfortable boat, the “Osprey”.