Not much going on today on the general birding front, however we did get an exciting update from one of our harbour nest platforms this afternoon when an Osprey landed on it just after lunch. It’s been quite usual for the current two present males (5R0 and 5H3) to visit these platforms over the last few weeks, so we just assumed it was going to be one of them, or potentially local male 022 who also visits the other nests to see off local competition. However, we couldn’t quite believe it when the bird turned, showing the ring number which read ‘5H6’. This is incredible news, not only because this now means we have THREE eligible male Osprey present in the local area, which is fantastic for the project, and just what we need to see the the newly established south coast population evolve even more. Plus, without being biased, 5H6 was most definately a fan favourite due to his plucky bravery as he was dwarfed by his three older brothers. 5H6 was the last to hatch out of a clutch of 4 back in 2024, and due to the staggered hatching dates, he was half the size of his siblings for several weeks, until he finally caught up and was able to compete for food. Due to both CJ7 and 022 being such incredible parents, it meant all four chicks fledged that year, and as a result, we already have TWO back from that year, 5H6 and 5R0.

Other sightings from today included a Spoonbill flying up the Piddle Valley this morning, on Hydes Heath, RSPB Arne Tree Pipit, Cuckoo and Crossbill were logged, 2 Hobby were hunting over the Arne Road, Arne Moors area, an adult White-tailed Eagle was out in the Wareham Channel on Shag Looe Bar and a Little Ringed Plover was on the Stilt Pools at Swineham. There were other Osprey sightings too with 2 in Lytchett Bay, including 5H3 and local male 022 was seen seeing off todays new arrival over near Middlebere.

Male Osprey 5H6 (smallest on right) resting with his siblings in late May 2024

Male Osprey 5H6 (smallest on left) battling for food with his siblings in late May 2024

Touchdown – 5H6’s return this afternoon after being on his wintering grounds for last 2 years

Male Osprey 5H6 assessing the landscape this afternoon from a harbour nest platform