As the start of the Glalsyn Osprey Project looms closer, what lies ahead for 2008? Eggs? chicks? A third osprey arriving on the scene to mix things up mid-season? Who knows.
What we do know is we are raring to go and ready to show you some of the finest close-up nest footage of the ospreys that you could hope for. We unveiled our new cameras last year, and captured some breathtaking footage of the osprey family. We are able to zoom in so close that every feather of the birds, every scale of the fish they bring, and every drop of rain (and last year there was a lot of rain!) is pin-sharp.
It's been six months or so since we were last here, and if you're memories of last season are a little spongy then here's a quick recap to help bring you up to speed...
The male came back in March minus the orange ID ring on his right leg. All of us were convinced this was the usual male. His markings and mannerisms were identical to previous years and he settled in so quickly with the female. This is where the super-dooper new camera's came into their own. As he sat on the nest we could zoom in closely on the metal BTO ring on his left leg and read the ID number, confirming that this was indeed our regular male. Brilliant!
With the Easter hols came three eggs - of the non-chocolate variety! - from which, emerged three lovely chicks. Sadly, one of them didn't survive, but the other two went from strength to strength and fledged successfully in the middle of July. All in all, a fabulous season.
Now, all eyes are turned skywards, as we anticipate once more the return of the adult birds. Every gull, buzzard and even crow that flies nearby is being scrutinised more closely than usual - just in case it turns our to be Mr or Mrs osprey! We will open the viewing site on Thursday 20 March, so do come along and see us over the Easter bank holiday weekend - you may be the one to catch that first glimpse of the birds. We will also be showing last year's highlights from the nest-cams in the visitor centre. It's great to be back! Hope to see you all very soon.
Hi Wendy, i'm looking forward to the Osprey webcam again this year. We visited the centre last year and enjoyed our stay in Wales and having the Ospreys there made our holiday even more enjoyable. We recently returned from holiday in Snowdon 2 weeks ago and had our eyes glued to the skies hoping for a early sighting but with no luck (may be a little too early!) Heres hoping 2008 will be another good year for you all and the birds. Best wishes Teresa.
Hi there. I keep checking this section every day now - as I remember last year the Ospreys first appeared literally during this week. We come to stay just up the road near Garreg every year in or around late June - and one of our favourite highlights is to come and visit the Osprey centre. Not only to see the fantastic birds themselves - but to relax in the beautiful surroundings. Its set in such a lovely spot with a wonderful view of the mountains - lots of other birds to enjoy spotting too!! I can't wait to hear some good news of a first sighting. Yours excitedly. Alison
Really good news to hear that the birds have returned. We were with you easter weekend and there was an air of expectancy around the site. We enjoyed our visit (even after the jibes about the rugby) and were fasinated by your work. We are now back in Sandy and will keep an eye on the webcam.
Keep up the good work. Have a good summer. Steve & Jan Jackson
Hi Wendy
I spotted an osprey this afternoon here in South Somerset. Could it be on the way to you ?
Kerry.
Hello for the first time last year I visited the Glaslyn site for my one and only sight of the Ospreys and what a buzz it was thankyou to the staff for thier enthusiasm,even the horrendous rain didn't spoil my day and Iam looking forward to returning this year.