Rare osprey egg a sign species is 'fighting back'

A rare pair of ospreys have laid their first egg in mid-Wales, which conservationists believe is the first such egg in the area for at least 250 years.

It was laid in a nest near Talybont-on-Usk, near Brecon, Powys, and is a sign the "rare species is fighting back", said conservation group Usk Valley Ospreys.

The species was wiped out in Wales in the 19th century due to persecution and habitat loss, but has been making a comeback in recent years due to conservation efforts.

"Although nothing is certain, we are hoping for another one or two eggs in the next few days," said Andy King, of Usk Valley Ospreys.

The ospreys began building their nest in 2023 - the first time the species has nested so far south in Wales for 200 years, according to the group.

Although both adults are unringed, it is believed they are young and in their first full nesting year.

Since their arrival, other ospreys have been seen in the area.

Mr King said the couple were running out of time to lay their egg, as it had to happen before the end of April "to give the parents a whole season to raise the chicks".

"The fact that this pair have established a nest and laid an egg shows the species has a chance of making further progress," he said, adding that it was "great news for everyone who cares about our wildlife".

The fish-eating birds used to be widely distributed across the British Isles, but their numbers declined centuries ago due to illegal killing and egg theft.

Now they are a Schedule 1 species, meaning they have the highest level of protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. It is a criminal offence to disturb them or their nests.

The species remains on the Amber List because of its historical decline and low breeding numbers.