History-Making Ospreys: Southern Nest Sites Beckon Return | BBC News
The south coast of England is bracing for a remarkable wildlife event: the anticipated return of a breeding pair of ospreys who have captivated conservationists and bird enthusiasts alike. Male osprey 022 and female CJ7, who began nesting at Careys Secret Garden near Wareham, Dorset, in , are expected back in late .
Their arrival would mark the continuation of a historic story. The pair became the first ospreys to breed successfully on England’s south coast in – a gap of nearly 180 years – when they raised two chicks in . The significance of this event isn’t lost on those involved in the reintroduction program. As Liv Elwood, charity manager at Birds of Poole Harbour, stated in , the egg laid by CJ7 was “hugely significant,” representing “the only egg that exists in the whole of the south.”
The ospreys’ story is a testament to a dedicated reintroduction scheme initiated by the charity Birds of Poole Harbour in . The program involved bringing osprey chicks from Scotland and releasing them into the Dorset area, hoping to re-establish a breeding population. The success of CJ7 and 022 demonstrates the potential of such conservation efforts, offering a beacon of hope for the species’ future in southern England.
The return of the pair is eagerly awaited, not just for the continuation of their breeding success, but also because of their unusual productivity. Sam Ryde from Birds of Poole Harbour noted that CJ7 and 022 are “very unusual” for hatching four chicks in both and . This high reproductive rate sets them apart and further underscores the importance of their continued presence.
However, the journey of these magnificent birds is fraught with challenges. Ospreys undertake a long and perilous annual migration to western Africa, and the return rate is estimated to be around 30%. Ryde explained that young ospreys who don’t return may fall victim to predators like crocodiles and jackals, or be swept off course by severe weather, potentially being blown out into the Atlantic Ocean. Many of the ospreys are ringed for identification purposes, but lack tracking devices, making it difficult to determine the fate of those that travel missing.
Adding another layer of intrigue to the local osprey population, a young male hatched in has shown interest in returning to the area, potentially forming a third breeding pair. This possibility, while exciting, is tempered by the inherent risks of migration. The emergence of a third pair would represent a significant step forward in the re-establishment of ospreys in southern England.
The dynamics of osprey relationships are also proving to be more complex than previously understood. Ryde pointed out that, contrary to popular belief, ospreys are often more loyal to the nest site than to their partners. In , a “love triangle” developed at the nest before CJ7 successfully defended her territory against a rival female, highlighting the competitive nature of these birds.
To protect the ospreys and minimize disturbance, a nestcam and viewing platform have been established at Careys Secret Garden. However, the locations of other potential nest sites are being kept confidential. This careful approach reflects the commitment to ensuring the birds have the best possible chance of breeding successfully.
The story of CJ7 and 022 has resonated beyond the conservation community, even garnering attention on national television, as highlighted by their recent appearance on BBC Breakfast. Their story is a compelling example of successful conservation, and a reminder of the beauty and fragility of the natural world. The anticipation surrounding their return in late is palpable, and their continued presence promises to be a captivating chapter in the ongoing story of wildlife recovery in southern England.
The success of the reintroduction program also raises broader questions about the future of ospreys in the UK. While the south coast represents a significant expansion of their range, the long-term sustainability of these populations will depend on continued conservation efforts and a deeper understanding of the challenges they face during migration and breeding.