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New arrival for Wigtown Ospreys
RSPB Scotland takes lead role in osprey partnership
There’s a new arrival for the Wigtown Ospreys this week, but it’s not another chick.
Ian Brown, a community and wildlife officer for RSPB Scotland, is joining the project to help show Wigtown’s famous birds to visitors and locals. He’ll be running events and activities, such as guided walks, and working with volunteers as well as making links within the local community.
Ian, who is originally from Brighton, is no stranger to wildlife projects, having previously worked with the Glaslyn ospreys in Wales. He’s also been employed on the Galloway Kite Trail, and is an active member of the Galloway Mountain Rescue Team.
Ian said: “It’s fantastic to return to the RSPB and have the opportunity to be part of such a dynamic project. I’m really looking forward to working closely with the community and visitors to Wigtown to promote the area’s spectacular wildlife and natural heritage.
“The ospreys are such engaging birds to be working with, and they’re having a great season this so far. Fingers crossed both chicks are going to be ready to fledge in just a few week’s time.”
Also joining the ospreys project will be a second, part-time RSPB officer, Kelly Hunter, who has worked previously with the ospreys through Sulwath Connections. Kelly has extensive experience working in conservation in the Wigtown area, with organisations such as SNH, Galloway Fisheries Trust and various voluntary positions.
The pair will also be looking for volunteers from the local community to help them tell the osprey story. If you would be interested in volunteering, contact Ian on 07919227854.
The Wigtown Bay Ospreys, ‘EP’ and ‘HD’, have two chicks in their nest this year, both now approximately a month old.
Live and recorded images of the ospreys and their chicks can be seen in the visitor room managed by Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Countryside Service and situated within Wigtown County Buildings. If you would like more information, please contact the visitor facilities in the County Buildings on 01988 402673.
The Wigtown Bay osprey group is a partnership between Dumfries and Galloway Council, RSPB Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, Dumfries and Galloway Constabulary, landowners and volunteers.
For more information/interviews/images, please contact Jenny Tweedie, Media and Communications Officer for the South and West of Scotland, on 0141 331 0993 or 07899 675131.
This project is supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund and part-financed by the Scottish Government and the European Community, Dumfries & Galloway LEADER 2007-2013 programme.
Sent to local press 27/06/11