Wildlife

Wild Osprey Winter Migration Welfare

UK ospreys winter in West Africa, primarily in Senegal and The Gambia, and welfare during the winter period is shaped by habitat quality and hunting opportunity.

Key Facts

UK ospreys winter along West African river systems and estuaries from September to March
Satellite tracked birds show fidelity to specific West African wintering sites across years
Habitat loss through agricultural expansion in West Africa is reducing fishing habitat quality
Some juvenile birds die during their first winter due to inexperience and poor habitat
Return migration to UK breeding sites begins in March for adult birds

Welfare Considerations

Osprey winter welfare in West Africa is shaped by wetland and river habitat quality that UK conservationists have limited direct control over. Supporting partner organisations in West Africa is the most direct welfare intervention.

What You Can Do

Support the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation and RSPB partnerships working in West Africa
Follow satellite-tracked ospreys through the RSPB website to understand winter habitat use
Donate to wetland conservation in West Africa that maintains osprey winter habitat