Forestry Experts Prepare Kielder for Osprey Breeding Season

As of October 18th, 2025, wildlife experts in Northumberland are already making preparations for the upcoming osprey breeding season at the Kielder site. The location has seen a successful return of ospreys in recent years, with over 125 chicks fledging since 2009. However, this past year proved challenging, with only 6 chicks surviving due to poor weather conditions.

To ensure a more successful breeding season, the Forestry England team is taking several steps over the winter months. They are removing the Osprey Watch cameras that allow the public to view the birds' nests, as the nests cannot be approached while occupied. The experts will also be cutting back any trees that have grown to overtop the nests, as ospreys prefer an open aspect. Additionally, the team's wildlife rangers will be conducting drone surveys to assess the condition of the surrounding trees.

"We obviously can't approach the nests while they're occupied," explained ecologist Tom Dearnley, "so these months allow us to do so. Trees grow and they overtop nests occasionally, but ospreys like an open aspect so we have to cut some back."

The Osprey Watch scheme, a partnership between Forestry England and other organizations, aims to provide the public with opportunities to view and learn about the birds. With the first osprey of the year spotted on March 21st, the team is hopeful that their winter preparations will help set the stage for a more successful breeding season in 2026.