Project Update - Nov 2025

2025 has been a busy year for the project with several new artificial nests being installed throughout Devon. We have also been collaborating with like minded groups in Cornwall and Somerset to further increase the likelihood of Ospreys breeding in the South West in the near future.

There have been several positive conversations with landowners for additional nest locations along the south Devon coast surrounding some excellent fishing grounds on the estuaries.

Installing an artificial Osprey nest with 4G solar powered camera on a telegraph pole in south Devon.

Many of the nests we install are in on telegraph poles. This allows us to select the most suitable area rather than rely on the location of existing trees. These poles also create the perfect outlook for Ospreys, which prefer to have a prominent nest site so they can be aware of any intruding Ospreys and predators. It also allows us to work with existing land use to minimise any potential future conflicts should Ospreys take up residence.

Nests are often placed in hedgerows with a perch placed nearby to allow the birds to remain near the nest when feeding.

Ideally these locations are at least 300m from human activity, although machinery is tolerated and much lower distances. With the amount of public footpaths around this is not always straightforward, even with the most enthusiastic of landowners.

Example of a nest located in a hedgerow on farmland.

In regards to sightings, 2025 has again been fantastic with numerous reports of Ospreys throughout the area. These peak in the autumn when juveniles make their way to Devon's estuaries before embarking on their first migration. We have also had several nest visits from adult birds in June and July - which is very promising.

Female Osprey with a freshly caught grey mullett on a Devon nest. 2025