Watch as osprey chicks hatch at Scottish Wildlife Trust's Loch of the Lowes reserve near Dunkeld

Two new osprey chicks have hatched at a wildlife reserve in Perth and Kinross.

The first chick hatched at the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve near Dunkeld on Tuesday morning, followed by a second one the same evening.

The chicks, named Bob and Pip, were fed by their mother, as one unhatched egg remains in the nest.

They are the first ospreys to hatch at the site since 2023 and the first for the latest breeding pair at the nest.

Sara Rasmussen, Perthshire ranger at the Scottish Wildlife Trust, said: “This is a huge moment, not just for ospreys at Loch of the Lowes, but for the species as a whole.

“After a long period of success with previous pairs, the last few years have been challenging with several less experienced birds competing for the territory.

“While this has provided some incredible natural spectacles, our priority is always the protection and conservation of these magnificent birds, so to have a chick hatching is a fantastic outcome.”

Chicks normally remain in the nest for seven to eight weeks after hatching, feeding on fish delivered by their parents.

After their first flight, they spend up to six weeks building their strength and skills before heading off to their wintering grounds in southern Europe or Africa.

On average, a young osprey will be ready to embark on this epic journey, which can be up to 5,000km, around three months after hatching.

Sara added: “A lot can still happen in the coming months and the birds’ fortunes can change very quickly.

“Our dedicated team will keep an eye on all the comings and goings and we hope you can join us, either by popping into our visitor centre or by watching our live webcams.”