Global audience for osprey arrivals

A nest camera has allowed viewers to watch an osprey lay its first egg of the season in the Scottish Highlands.

Dorcha and mate Louis returned to their nest at Loch Arkaig Pine Forest in Lochaber earlier this month.

The first egg was laid at 10.05pm on Sunday and a second egg is expected midweek, with a third likely towards the end of the week. The chicks are likely to hatch in May.

Viewers around the world can watch the nest via the Loch Arkaig Osprey Camera, which Woodland Trust Scotland has operated, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery (PPL), every summer since 2017.

Laura Chow, head of charities at PPL, said: “I am sure people will now be glued to the livestream to enjoy this amazing natural spectacle.

“We are delighted player support allows so many people to enjoy this aspect of wild forest life – wherever they are.”