The first osprey chick of the season has hatched at Loch Arkaig Pine Forest in the Highlands.
The moment was captured on Saturday morning thanks to a live nest camera, supported by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery.
Long-time resident osprey Louis and his mate Dorcha welcomed the new arrival at around 7.35am, after the first breach in the eggshell, known as a pip, appeared at 5.20am.
Second and third eggs are expected to hatch over the next few days.
Woodland Trust Scotland
Woodland Trust ScotlandThere were concerns Louis may not return to the nest this year after the bird-of-prey suffered from health issues in 2024.
Louis has been in residence every summer since 2017, with his first mate Aila until 2020 and his second mate, Dorcha since then.
Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “We are delighted that thanks to the support of our players, osprey fans all over the world can enjoy these intimate family moments.”
Louis was ill for a time last year and unable to fish, while poor weather also put pressure on the family. Two chicks faced starvation but were translocated to Spain as part of a reintroduction programme. One of them migrated successfully from Valencia last September.
Woodland Trust ScotlandLouis returned in good health to the nest on April 2 along with his mate Dorcha and eggs were laid on April 16, 19 and 22.
Louis brought in his 100th fish of the season on Wednesday.
The Loch Arkaig livestreams can be viewed at a dedicated page on the Woodland Trust website.
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