Wild Animals

Wild Osprey Nest Protection Volunteers

Volunteer nest protection schemes for ospreys, initially vital for the first Scottish breeding attempts, remain important for new colonies in England and Wales where persecution risk is higher.

Key Facts

The first Scottish osprey nest at Loch Garten was guarded 24 hours by volunteers from 1958
Egg collectors removed eggs from unprotected nests several times in early years
Volunteer protection schemes allowed the population to establish before sufficient numbers deterred collectors
New English and Welsh breeding sites often benefit from discreet monitoring by local birders

Welfare Considerations

Unguarded osprey nests are vulnerable to egg collection, disturbance and direct persecution near game fishing interests. Adults disturbed from nests in cold weather expose eggs to chilling. The welfare of individual breeding pairs and their chicks is directly improved by volunteer presence that deters interference and monitors nest success.

What You Can Do

Volunteer for osprey watch schemes at sites requesting assistance
Never publicise precise nest locations on social media
Report any suspected nest disturbance to the RSPB Wildlife Crime team
Support the RSPB Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group