Regular readers may recall that several males were vying for the position of Nest 2 PC8’s mate, whose partner failed to return.

Unfortunately the turmoil has resulted in it now being far too late for breeding, but it appears that 280, who hatched at Roudsea in 2018, is bonding well with PC8. And encouragingly they are mostly on the new platform which has a camera.

Both had appeared there occasionally until late May. Poor weather at the end of May meant there were no birds seen on the new nest for a couple of days. But from 31 May to today 280 has spent an increasing amount of time on the nest. He has been joined by PC8 most days since 4 June. Recently both have done some work on the nest and there have been fish exchanges. And copulation attempts occasionally.

The pair arrive early some days.

They seemed to be catching their own fish until they shared one yesterday.

There have been other ospreys on the nest this month. But 280 and PC8 are behaving in a territorial manner.

We’ll continue to monitor for developments.

Unfortunately the camera at Nest 5A ceased transmitting in the early hours yesterday. Initially it was thought to be a power issue, but replacement kit has not worked and the problem may be the camera itself. Hatching is due next week and monitoring by scope will replace footage.