Blue 44 has been finding his wings today!

After starting the day off (9.22am) with a smooth (30 second) flight and a perfect landing he continued to practise his new ability with several longer flights throughout the day. He is now getting more confident and certainly treated us to some beautiful displays of flying- despite blustery gusts of wind and spitting rain.

Following the concern he caused by staying out of view for 4 days last week, we were once again put through the mill for nearly an hour when he seemed to have disappeared into the woodland– happily he re-appeared!

During the time he was perched among the lower branches of the nest tree, the male brought in the first eel of the season. He gave it to the female who enjoyed a good feed before Blue 44, urged on no doubt by the thought of food, made the final flight up and into the nest to join her. It was wonderful to see this young osprey literally “spreading his wings” and exploring life beyond the nest.

Also today, we were delighted to welcome Ruairidh MacDonald and his family to the Loch of the Lowes. Ruairidh is performing in Fiona Kennedy’s production “The Kist” at the Oran Mor in Glasgow. Why am I mentioning this? In line with the theme of the play (emigration and Scots who have spread out across the world) Fiona Kennedy was inspired to write a song about our famous female osprey, known to many as Lady… and Ruairidh will be singing it. If anyone would like to attend the show, starting 26^th July, please contact Oran Mor, top ofByres Road,Glasgow.

Now that Blue 44 is becoming more accustomed to his wings we look forward to watching him learn to fish and become truly independent.

Cherry