Appeal after osprey remains found near famous nest site

POLICE are appealing for information after the remains of a protected bird species were found near a loch. The remains of an osprey were discovered on Friday near the Loch of the Lowes, Dunkeld, where the bird is believed to have been nesting. Inquiries are at an early stage to establish the full circumstances.

Inspector James Longden said: “It is illegal to kill any protected species and we are working closely alongside partner agencies to confirm what has happened here and whether there is any criminality involved.

“Information from the local community could prove vital and it is important we speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area, or who may know something which could assist our investigation.”

Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve – which operates a live webcam of a well-established osprey nest – issued a statement on Thursday expressing concern about the welfare of the male osprey named LM12.

It said: “Unfortunately, it is now four days since we last saw male osprey LM12 depart the reserve. Sadly, there have been no sightings or calls since the start of the week from NC0 that suggest he is around.

“For a breeding osprey to have been absent from the nest for this long is highly unusual, so it is likely that something has happened to LM12.

“It has been humbling to watch the determination, commitment & care NC0 has given to incubating her eggs for such a long period without a proper break. However, it is now 5 days since NC0 last ate, which is typically the point that a female will be forced to leave the nest to hunt.”

The Scottish Wildlife Trust later issued a statement confirming that the remains are believed to be that of LM12.

It said: “It is with a very heavy heart that we announce that a dead osprey was found near Dunkeld believed to be LM12.”

Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3266 of Friday May 3.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.