Female osprey LF15 laid her first of the season at the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve at around 3:45 am this morning.

Rachael Hunter, Perthshire Ranger, Scottish Wildlife Trust said: “We’ve been expecting to see an egg for about a week so I’m delighted that a long wait is over. LF15 laid three eggs last year so we might see another one in around 3 days’ time.

“LF15 has been keeping her egg nice and warm this morning, although LM12 came back to the nest shortly after 6 am and caused a short squabble by trying to push her out of the way! Since then he has brought another fish back to the nest and took over incubating the egg to give his mate a chance to feed.

“Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery our volunteers and Species Protection Officers are able to keep a close eye on the progress of our ospreys and prevent them being disturbed by people.”

Sanjay Singh, Senior Programmes Manager, People’s Postcode Lottery said: “Our players will be delighted that LF15 has laid her first egg of the season. We’re pleased that their support means ospreys are well protected on this scenic reserve.”

The Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Osprey Protection Programme is supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre is open daily from 10am – 5pm with 24-hour access to the reserve hides. The Trust’s live osprey webcam ensures people from around the world can follow events as they happen.