Hi everyone,
there is an osprey in the Rickmansworth area. Mr TF and I saw one couple of weeks ago, and one has been reported again today. Is this normal? Seems rather late. What does everyone think about why it might be hanging around, do any ever over winter? We thought the gale would have seen if off, of course it may be another one. Trying to persuade mr TF to join the community so he can post his own photos!
TF
Toadflax.
Hi Toadflax
The Loch Garten Group keeps track of osprey sightings in this thread, and it does appear that there are several still around in the UK, probably due to the mild weather. Staying on over the winter would be a first though.
Are you referring to a bird identifiable by damage to two left primary feathers, seen here on Birdguides? It’s a juvenile (buffy tips to the feathers), which these “late stayers” always seem to be.
Do encourage your OH to post his photos!
Yes, Sue, I think the one we saw a couple of weeks ago, was the one referred to with the dodgy feathers. Unfortunately we did not see it in flight so didn't actually see its wings. So, it's not that unusual then. If I was an osprey, I'd be seriously thinking about packing my case and heading south this weekend!
Here are some osprey sightings from 1999. As you can see there some in December.
The latest date for an osprey in Britain is 16 December 1980. It did not survive.
Tiger Signature
Let's hope it has decided to go now. Look forward to seeing more on their way back in the spring!
(thanks Mr TF for joining and posting!!!!)