Our ospreys are continuing to use the nest for some portion of each day and there have been regular fish deliveries by the male to his partner there too. Otherwise they have been perched on flat top tree or on an old dead birch tree to the left of the nest most of the time during the day.

Q: Why are the birds still hanging around if they have failed to breed? Why don’t they leave for Africa?

A: Both birds are still defending their nesting territory and will continue to do so until late in the breeding season, to make sure no other birds take over it. Even though it would be too late for a new bird to raise a family this year, they could ‘move in’ and start developing a bond with the site in preparation for next year if our resident birds don’t  keep control of it. It is interesting that a couple of times over the last few days both birds have returned to the nest and mantled at osprey intruders- leaving them in no doubt that it is still their nest!

Our birds will probably drift off to start their autumn migration in late summer- perhaps a little earlier than usual- but for now the living is easy so they will concentrate on building themselves up .

Q: Why is the male still feeding the female osprey when there are no chicks?

A: The males instinct to provide for his mate and family is very very strong. He is ‘programmed’ to provide for her and it confirms their pair bond too. It will be interesting to see how long this goes on for in absence of chicks  and when she starts fishing for herself.

Q: Any news of Blue YD?

A: Alas no, but we are still hoping some eagle eyed person will spot his leg ring and report him this summer- remember if Rothiemurcus’ exploits are anything to go by, our bird may wander very widely and could turn up just about anywhere in the UK so keep an eye out!

Got any pressing Osprey questions? Send them to  ospreys @swt.org.uk and we will answer them here.

Ranger Emma