Ospreys breeding in Rutland

Ospreys first bred in Rutland in 2001 when one healthy chick was raised. The male bird, 03(97), had built a nest in the top of a dying oak tree, away from the reservoir on private land, known as Site B. Since then the same male has returned and bred there every year.

In 2003 there was a second successful nest nearby but that nest was not occupied subsequently. In 2007 an artificial nest in Manton Bay was used successfully - the first Rutland nest site to be in a publicly viewable place,

Each year there have also been several non-breeding males who have established territories and built nests.

Mother and two juveniles, 2007. Photo: John Wright

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2001: The first Osprey nest in central England.
03(97) and an unringed female.

2002: A failed breeding attempt.
The same pair but no young this year.

2003: A new female at the same nest.
Female 05(00) takes over, very successfully.

2003: A second breeding nest.
03(98) and 06(01) produce two young.

2004: One nest again in Rutland.

2004: Two ex-Rutland males breed in Wales.

2005: The same pair breed again in Rutland.

2006: Another three chicks for 03(97) and 05(00).

1997-2006: 08(97) in Manton Bay.

2007: Successful breeding in Manton Bay

2007: The story at site B.

2008: 08 and 5N return to Manton Bay, but fail to raise any chicks.

2008: Another successful year at Site B.