Three chicks spotted in Kielder osprey nest

23/06/2009 15:01:50 June 2009. The Kielder Partnership can reveal that the first ospreys to nest successfully in Northumberland for over two centuries have had three chicks.

These are the first images of the historic nest showing the female with her chicks, on the artificial nesting platform erected on the estate by the Forestry Commission in 2008.

Because experts are staying well back from the remote site to avoid disturbing the birds, the picture was only made possible using a powerful telescope peering through dense foliage.

Martin Davison, Forestry Commission ornithologist, who is keeping tabs on the ground breaking osprey family, said: "We think these birds are first time parents, probably about four years old, but even so they are doing a smashing job," he said. "A big cause of infant mortality amongst birds is lack of food, but the male has been out regularly swooping down on Kielder Water to bring the youngsters tasty fresh fish. We can't take anything for granted, but each day that passes the chicks grow stronger."

Growing appetites
Chicks need at least one small fish every day to stay healthy, but as they develop, so too will their appetite. So far the female has steadfastly refused to budge from the nest, but she will hunt if the male struggles to find enough food.

Viewing point
The viewing point is open daily and manned during weekends, but may also be staffed at other times during the week. For further information please go to www.visitkielder.com , or check times with the RSPB on 0191 2568200. Located at the Mounces Car Park, off the C200 near Leaplish Waterside Park.

Duncan Hutt, Head of Land Management at the Northumberland Wildlife Trust, added: "It's great news to have ospreys breeding in Kielder Water & Forest Park and even better to find that they have had three chicks. All being well we will be able to watch all the birds hunting around the lake later in the summer."