A pair of ospreys have laid an egg in a nest near Talybont-on-Usk, Brecon, signalling a hopeful sign that this rare bird species is beginning to make a comeback in mid Wales. This development marks a significant milestone for ospreys in the region, as it is the first confirmed nesting so far south in Wales in 200 years.

Ospreys were completely wiped out in Wales during the 19th century, primarily due to persecution and loss of their natural habitats. However, ongoing conservation efforts have begun to facilitate the species' gradual return to the area. The arrival and nesting of these ospreys indicate progress in these efforts.

Andy King, chair of Usk Valley Ospreys, expressed enthusiasm about the news, telling the South Wales Argus: "It’s fantastic to see this pair of ospreys thriving and now laying their first egg in our part of Wales. It had to happen by the end of April to give the parents a whole season to raise the chicks, so time was running out." He also noted the hope that the pair might lay one or two more eggs in the coming days.

The birds arrived, defended a territory, and built their nest near Talybont-on-Usk in 2023. Both adult birds are unringed, and it is believed they are a young pair experiencing their first full nesting season. Since their arrival, other ospreys have also been spotted in the surrounding area, further suggesting the species is re-establishing itself locally.

King highlighted the significance of this event, saying: "Ospreys are among the most impressive and rarest birds of prey in Wales and the UK as a whole. The fact that this pair have established a nest and laid an egg shows the species has a chance of making further progress. That’s great news for everyone who cares about our wildlife."

Ospreys in the UK are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and are classified as a Schedule 1 species, which makes it a criminal offence to disturb the birds or their nests.

For those interested in following the progress of the ospreys, a live stream is available through the Usk Valley Ospreys website, allowing the public to observe these remarkable birds as they raise their chicks.

Source: Noah Wire Services