**Ospreys Return to Usk Valley: A Remarkable Event After Two Centuries**
A remarkable chapter in Welsh conservation history has just been written as a pair of ospreys, often referred to as a “duet,” have successfully laid an egg in the Usk Valley, near Talybont-on-Usk, Brecon. This event marks the first time in approximately 250 years that ospreys have been recorded breeding in this particular region, highlighting a significant milestone in the restoration of this iconic but once-vanished species.
Ospreys, majestic birds of prey known for their striking plumage and fishing prowess, became extinct as a breeding species in England and Wales by the mid-19th century. Their disappearance was primarily attributed to persistent persecution and extensive habitat loss—a narrative all too common among the British Isles’ birds of prey. However, targeted conservation efforts spanning several decades are now yielding extraordinary results, with the ospreys steadily reclaiming their historic territories across Wales.
The Usk Valley Ospreys group has chronicled the unfolding of this landmark event. The two adult birds, which are “unringed”—meaning they have not been fitted with identifying leg bands as part of conservation studies—began constructing their nest in 2023 after establishing their territory in the area. Experts believe this is the most southerly known osprey nest in Wales for more than two centuries, adding further excitement to the discovery.
Andy King, Chair of Usk Valley Ospreys, expressed both excitement and relief at this development. “It’s fantastic to see this pair of ospreys thriving and now laying their first egg in our part of Wales. It had to happen by the end of April to give the parents a whole season to raise the chicks, so time was running out,” he said. The timing is crucial, as any further delay would have reduced the young’s chances of survival before the autumn migration.
Local bird enthusiasts and conservationists have noted that the presence of this breeding pair is not only symbolic but may also herald further recoveries in the ospreys’ population. Since their arrival, other ospreys have been spotted in the area, possibly drawn by the successful nesting activities and the area’s promising habitat.
This news follows similar reports from the Glaslyn Valley, where another osprey pair recently reunited for their third breeding season, underscoring a broader and encouraging trend of recovery. Conservation organisations attribute this resurgence predominantly to protective legislation and habitat restoration initiatives.
It is important to note that ospreys enjoy the highest level of protection under UK law, specifically as a Schedule 1 species within the Wildlife and Countryside Act. This makes it an offence to disturb the birds or their nest sites, a precaution seen as vital to the continued success of the species’ re-establishment. This legal shield is a testament to the seriousness with which authorities and conservation bodies regard the future of ospreys in Britain.
Andy King also remarked, “Although nothing is certain, we are hoping for another one or two eggs in the next few days. Ospreys are among the most impressive and rarest birds of prey in Wales and the UK as a whole. The fact that this pair have established a nest and laid an egg shows the species has a chance of making further progress. That’s great news for everyone who cares about our wildlife.”
The story of the ospreys in Usk Valley serves as a poignant reminder of what sustained conservation can achieve. From the brink of eradication, these remarkable birds are now steadily reweaving themselves into the fabric of Welsh natural life, offering fresh hope for other threatened species across the country. As the eggs are incubated and, hopefully, a new generation of ospreys is hatched, conservationists and the public alike will be watching this nest with keen anticipation.