Wildlife

Osprey UK Recovery and Conservation

Ospreys have made a remarkable comeback in the UK after being extinct as a breeding species for most of the 20th century.

Key Facts

Ospreys returned to breed in Scotland naturally in 1954 after 50 years' absence
Reintroduction projects have established populations in England and Wales
Ospreys migrate to West Africa each winter, a 6,000 km journey
They feed almost exclusively on live fish caught by plunge-diving
Nest camera projects have engaged millions in osprey conservation

Welfare Considerations

Osprey recovery in the UK represents a conservation success story with positive welfare implications for a population once driven to extinction by persecution and egg collecting. Continued habitat protection and anti-persecution work are vital.

What You Can Do

Support wildlife charities involved in osprey reintroduction projects
Visit osprey nest sites and donate to their protection
Report any suspected raptor persecution to the police or RSPB
Engage with osprey nest cameras to follow individual birds' progress
Reduce single-use plastics that pollute osprey fishing habitats