Well so far, this season has got off to a good start, with both our ospreys returning, and getting to know one another again.

I thought I would just update everyone, on some other “arrivals” this season. Our Species Protection Team is now in place and already working hard, protecting our ospreys, as always, ably assisted by our local volunteer “army”.

This year we welcome the return of Michelle, who volunteered with us last year. Also Chloe who has spent the last year working with our Projects Team helping to carry out practical tasks on our local reserves.  These two are joined by Jane and Freya, who are with us for the first time, and I am sure will enjoy the experience. You will probably be seeing Blogs from this team throughout the season.

Unfortunately Charlotte, our Perthshire Ranger, has been offered what sounds like a fantastic job opportunity in the north-west Highlands, and we will be losing her at the end of April. Whilst sad to see her go, we wish her luck in this next chapter of her career.

Finding a suitable replacement for Charlotte will not be an easy or necessarily quick process, and therefore in the interim period Michelle will be stepping up to become Senior Species Protection Officer, to ensure the smooth and continuous running of our osprey protection efforts.

Charlotte is one of a very select group of people who has been employed as our Perthshire Ranger, and as she migrates to pastures new, I look to the skies (well e-mails) for the next dedicated, enthusiastic, motivated, Perthshire Ranger. If that sounds like you, please see the Recruitment Section of the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s webpage.

Rab Potter

Reserves Manager North East