Conservationists are preparing for the return of ospreys to England’s southern coast, marking the first confirmed breeding presence in the region in nearly two centuries. A pioneering pair is anticipated to arrive from their annual migration from western Africa by late March, signaling a significant milestone in the species’ recovery.
The Re-Establishment of a Lost Species
For 180 years, ospreys have been absent from the English south coast as breeding birds. Their re-emergence is the result of a carefully managed reintroduction program initiated in 2017 by the charity Birds of Poole Harbour. This program involved releasing young ospreys hatched in Scotland into Dorset, with the goal of establishing a self-sustaining population.
The effort appears to be working. In 2025, a second breeding pair successfully nested in the area, and experts predict a third pair may form in 2026. Sam Ryde, a representative of the charity, notes that a young male osprey hatched in 2023 has exhibited interest in returning to the region as he reaches breeding age.
The Challenges of Long-Distance Migration
However, the reintroduction is not without its risks. Osprey migration is treacherous; only approximately 30% of young birds survive their first long-distance journeys. The fate of missing individuals remains largely unknown, as many lack tracking devices. Potential threats include predation by crocodiles and jackals in Africa, as well as fatal storms over the Atlantic Ocean.
Osprey Behavior: Loyalty to Place, Not Partner
Despite the romanticized image of ospreys as lifelong monogamous partners, Ryde emphasizes that they are primarily loyal to their nesting sites rather than individual mates. This pragmatism is evident in the success of breeding pairs like CJ7 and 022, which have hatched an exceptional eight chicks over the past two years.
The return of ospreys to southern England demonstrates the potential for species recovery through targeted conservation efforts. The long-term sustainability of this population will depend on mitigating migration risks and continued monitoring.
