The Trust can confirm that the new female osprey at its Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve, near Dunkeld, has laid her second egg of the season.

On Tuesday evening, the new female osprey laid her first egg and brought delight to osprey enthusiasts around the globe. Ospreys can lay up to four eggs in a season and the gaps between eggs is usually around 48 hours. The expert team at Loch of the Lowes had been alert to the possible arrival of a second egg but had not seen the tell-tale egg-laying signs from the bird such as laying low in the nest, tail-lifting and panting.

The Scottish Wildlife Trust Perthshire Ranger, Charlotte Fleming, said: “At around 2.36pm, the new female osprey laid her second egg of the season. It came as a surprise to the staff and volunteers at the Scottish Wildlife Trust Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Reserve, as she was not displaying egg-laying behaviour for very long beforehand.

“Eggs on the nest means the Osprey Protection Programme is now in full operation. This is only possible thanks to the Trust’s range of supporters, including players of People’s Postcode Lottery. This vital funding means the Trust is able to operate a 24-hour watch on the nest site to ensure the safety of the birds and the eggs.

“Hopefully, in the coming days there will be more eggs as ospreys can lay up to four in a season. The average is three. The Scottish Wildlife Trust is encouraging people to visit scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/ospreycam and see if they can spot the next egg when it is laid.”

Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, Clara Govier, said: “Players will be delighted to know they’re supporting this fantastic cause. Ospreys are rarer than golden eagles and need protection. We are really excited to hear the news of a second egg.”