A record-breaking number of osprey chicks are thrilling birdwatchers at a premier nature reserve.
Five osprey chicks have recently hatched at Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve in Cumbria, with each being fitted with identification rings and tags.
According to Cumbria Wildlife Trust, this remarkable increase in chicks is attributed to a new breeding pair that joined the established duo, Blue 35 and White TW, last year.
Paul Waterhouse, the sanctuary officer for the charity, noted that the new pair, Blue 717 and its mate Blue 476, successfully fledged one chick last year, which is typical for inexperienced osprey birds.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see this new pair return this year with three thriving chicks,” he expressed.
“We are equally pleased that our long-standing pair, Blue 35 and White YW, continue to breed successfully.”
Waterhouse added that the trust estimates this established pair to be around 18 years old, given that the average lifespan of ospreys is about 25 years.
“It feels like a true bonus to have them breeding consistently each year,” Waterhouse stated.
Previously, the record for the Foulshaw Moss area was only three chicks in a single season.
The charity noted that Blue 35 and White YW first arrived at Foulshaw Moss in 2013 after significant habitat restoration efforts were made.
However, they cautioned that the second nest, which was installed last year, is situated “quite close to the boardwalk and is vulnerable to disturbance.”
The charity urges all visitors to respect the nesting area and to use nearby hides “responsibly.”
Birds are ringed and tagged not only to assist conservationists in tracking their movements but also to gain insights into their life histories.
These young chicks are expected to depart from the South Lake District Nature Reserve in September, embarking on their migration journey to the Iberian Peninsula or West Africa.
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Source: www.bbc.co.uk