Our male osprey chick, PH1, has set off on migration.

We were about to announce his departure a few days ago but then he must have popped back – now, however, we can confirm he has left Loch of the Lowes – we wish him a smooth and safe migration.

PH1 was a very noisy juvenile who could be heard by visitors as soon as they reached the car park. We thought peace would reign when he left, but no, PH2 has taken up the cry and keeps up what sometimes feels like incessant calling from the nest.

It has been noted that LM12 quite often delivers a fish to the nest around 5pm each day. The drop off of ‘supper’ can be over in the blink of an eye but for very observant webcam watchers this fleeting view of two ospreys can be seen on the webcam.So, the end of the osprey season is nearly upon us. If you are in the area you still have a chance to see them. The adult male, LM12, and PH2 are providing good sightings because PH2 spends a lot of time perched up on the trees directly opposite the hides.

Perthshire has been dogged by torrential rain, high wind, then sun, then heavy rain, then sun for several weeks now but I’m delighted to say today it is warm and still on the reserve under a blue sky. Great crested grebe, tufted duck and swans are sailing around the loch, along with a score or so of mallards. Sandmartins are skimming the surface and two grey heron are on the bank, one stalking stealthily in and out of the reeds.

In the feeding station, the red squirrels have mastered their acrobatics along the ropes.  At least one of this year’s kittens prefers to climb right inside the feeding boxes rather than sit on the ledge and lift the lid to pick out a peanut.

There are still a few places on the Beaver Watches on Friday 25 and Wednesday 30 August. Booking is essential so if you are interested please contact us directly at Loch of the Lowes (01350 727337).

Cherry