In a momentous win for avian conservation, a pair of ospreys have successfully bred in Ireland for the first time in over 200 years. This extraordinary event marks a significant milestone in the conservation efforts of these majestic birds of prey.
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The nesting pair, which has been closely observed by Giles Knight, an Environmental Farming Scheme Advisor with Ulster Wildlife, has produced at least two, possibly three chicks. This marks the first known wild osprey chicks on the island of Ireland in modern times.
Ospreys are thought to have become extinct as a breeding bird in Ireland in the late 18th century due to systematic persecution, and while they have often been spotted in NI on migration to & from sub-Saharan Africa, confirmed breeding in Ireland has been elusive until now. pic.twitter.com/ioNYMBRbht
— Ulster Wildlife (@UlsterWildlife) August 24, 2023
The historic re-emergence of ospreys breeding in Ireland is a testament to the resilience of nature and the success conservation efforts can achieve. Giles, who has been monitoring the breeding pair for the past three seasons, expressed his excitement at the accomplishment.
“Along with my son Eoin, I have watched the adults return to the same site since 2021, so you can imagine my excitement the moment that I saw three chicks and two adults this year. It was a rub-your-eyes, once-in-a-lifetime moment; an absolute highlight of my 30-year wildlife career – like finding long-lost treasure.” He stated.
Protecting these vulnerable birds has been of utmost importance, and Knight has diligently kept this news under wraps until now to keep the nesting pair safe.
We are thrilled to share that ospreys have bred in Ireland for the first time in over 200 years.
— Ulster Wildlife (@UlsterWildlife) August 24, 2023
A pair of ospreys have bred at a confidential nest site in County Fermanagh and have successfully produced at least two, possibly three chicks. pic.twitter.com/6i85QkKN1I
The successful fledging of at least two chicks this season is a significant conservation triumph. In order for parents to successfully rear chicks, they need a healthy wetland habitat with plenty of food sources. Their healthy chicks serve as a marker for the abundance of suitable habitats and fish in the Fermanagh Lakelands, which are crucial for supporting the osprey population.
This achievement also underscores the importance of preserving wetland ecosystems and protecting the delicate balance of nature. The return of ospreys to Ireland is a testament to the concerted efforts of conservationists. This success also instills hope for the continued growth and prosperity of these magnificent birds and the success of conservation efforts as a whole.
As we witness the return of these apex predators to our skies and the Fermanagh Lakelands, we are reminded not only of the vital role we play in protecting and conserving our natural heritage but also of the fact that we can succeed in these efforts.
Let us cherish this remarkable achievement and continue to work together to ensure a bright future for ospreys in Ireland.
You can find the sources of this story’s featured image here and here.
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