The Trust is glad to announce the laying of eggs by its breeding peregrines at the Falls of Clyde reserve.
The first egg was spotted on Saturday morning (30 March) with a potential second yet to be confirmed.
Peregrines tend to lay eggs over the course of a week, so more could still be laid.
The Scottish Wildlife Trust Falls of Clyde Reserve is home to what might be Scotland’s oldest breeding male peregrine – known as a tiercel – and is widely regarded as one of the best places in the UK to see the species.
Peregrines incubate their eggs for between 29 to 33 days, so chicks could hatch at the beginning of May.
In order to ensure the safety of the birds, the Scottish Wildlife Trust runs a 24-hour Peregrine Protection Programme on the site, which includes a dedicated ranger – funded by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.
The Scottish Wildlife Trust operates the watch with a team of staff and dedicated volunteers because peregrine falcons, like many raptors, are under constant threat from poachers, egg collectors and thieves.
The People’s Postcode Lottery Peregrine Protection Officer, Adam Murphy, said: “It is really exciting that for another year our peregrines have successfully bred.
“However, now our work here at the Scottish Wildlife Trust Falls of Clyde reserve really steps-up a gear.
“To try and give these birds the best chance of survival, we ensure that there is someone on the site at all times watching the nest.
“It is a lot of work, but it will be all the more rewarding if the eggs hatch and then there is the chance to watch the chicks develop.
“This could not be done without our team of dedicated volunteers that give their time for this vital cause.
Chief Executive of the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Jonathan Hughes, said: “It is fantastic news that our peregrines have successfully bred for another season.
“Recent news of the alarming number of birds of prey being persecuted in the north of Scotland is a stark reminder of the importance of the Scottish Wildlife Trust raptor protection programmes at the Falls of Clyde and Loch of the Lowes.
“The dedication and expertise of our rangers and volunteers ensures that these birds get the very best chance of survival.
“The Falls of Clyde is an idyllic location where visitors are almost guaranteed to see peregrines on the nest, so I would urge anyone that hasn’t yet visited to take advantage of this by seeing these spectacular birds up close and personal.”