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Ospreys Thrive: Dry Summer Fuels Rutland Water Breeding Success
22 Aug
Summary
- Dry summer conditions created ideal feeding for ospreys.
- Rutland Osprey Project aims for a self-sustaining breeding colony.
- Last year, 11 pairs produced a record 31 chicks.
Extended dry weather this summer has provided superb feeding opportunities for ospreys at Rutland Water, according to the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust.
The Rutland Osprey Project, initiated in 1996, has focused on relocating young osprey chicks from Scotland to establish a self-sustaining breeding population.
This conservation effort has seen significant success, with 333 ospreys born as part of the project to date. Last year, a new record was set when 11 breeding pairs successfully hatched 31 chicks.
Project representative Tim Sexton noted that the dry conditions have enhanced fishing success for adult ospreys. Consequently, he observed that many chicks have begun fledging earlier than anticipated due to the abundant food supply.
