Father’s Day joy for famous osprey Lonesome Louis
FAMOUS Lochaber osprey Lonesome Louis’ love story continued at the weekend when his two chicks were born.
The osplets, as they are being called, hatched over the weekend of Father's Day at Loch Arkaig Forest, which was recently purchased by Woodland Trust Scotland in partnership with local group Arkaig Community Forest.
Lonesome Louis was given the nickname after his mate failed to turn up earlier this year. But after a long threeweek wait to find his female partner, Aila did eventually appear and Louis was lovesick no more.
The pair are believed to be young inexperienced birds in their first breeding attempt.
Woodland Trust spokesman George Anderson said: ‘The Arkaig ospreys have been a big hit online, partly because they are such novices. Louis in particular is a bit goofy. He sometimes brings a stick when a fish would be more welcome but they are settling well into parenthood now.'
All five nests in the vicinity failed to produce chicks last year. It is believed extended rainy weather stopped the adult ospreys from fishing. Woodland Trust Scotland has plans for the long-term regeneration of the spectacular forest at Loch Arkaig, one of the largest remaining fragments of ancient Caledonian pinewood remaining.
The forest was the site of commando training during the Second World War, and a scene in the movie Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was filmed there.
The nest camera, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, is solar-powered and will beam out live footage throughout the summer.