Wonderful news here at Loch of the Lowes with out first Osprey egg of the 2014 breeding season laid overnight.  At around 12.30 last night our nightwatch staff noticed classic egg laying behaviour- the bird lying low and panting, and at 12.47 the female stood up to reveal her new egg.  It is just as well the birds have built such a deep , snug cup in the centre of the nest as it was so windy last night, the whole nest tree was rocking.

First Osprey egg of the 2014 season at Loch of the Lowes- copyright SWT

Since it was laid, the egg has been carefully tended and both birds have taken a turn incubating. The male is particularly keen to have a go- just now he pushed the female right off , insisting it was his turn- this is a fantastic sign that he is bonding with the egg and his instincts to provide and care for it are fully aroused, which bodes well for the future.

What a fantastic treat to celebrate SWT’s 50th anniversary this weekend!!! The staff and volunteers here are over the moon, and we are so relieved that our beloved female is still breeding at her advanced age. Why not drop in today to share the excitement- entry is FREE at all our visitors centres today only.