The chick, a male aptly named Kielder, took its first flight from the 'Lord Robinson' nest (Nest 12), marking a milestone in the species' recovery.

Ospreys had been absent from Northumberland for more than two centuries before a single nest produced three chicks in 2009. Since then, sustained conservation work has helped the population thrive with multiple nests across the forest producing chicks.

This year's achievement falls during a significant year for the Kielder, with Forestry England marking the centenary of its first plantings that led to the creation of England’s largest forest in 1926.

Alongside events celebrating Kielder’s importance as a source of sustainable, home-grown timber and as a popular tourist destination this news also highlights the forest’s as a home for nature – not just ospreys but also pine martens, goshawks, red squirrels and more.

The osprey's return is the result of years of work by the Kielder Osprey Project, a partnership between Forestry England, Northumbrian Water, Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Kielder Trust, Wild Intrigue and Calvert Kielder.

Alex MacLennan, Recreation and Public Affairs Manager at Forestry England said:

 “It’s a great achievement to reach 150 successfully fledged chicks since 2009, their return each year to breed right here in Northumberland is a real calendar highlight. Even after so much success each year brings its own challenges in weather, predators and more so this is a very special milestone.”

Elizabeth Blair, Director at Kielder Trust said:

 "This is fantastic news and a wonderful moment for everyone involved in the partnership working behind the Kielder Osprey Project. These birds mean so much to all of us involved, and to the thousands of visitors and supporters who follow their story each year.

“We’re thrilled to reach this milestone, and to have our 150th fledgling be our namesake in Kielder’s centenary year makes it even more special.”

Once hatched, juvenile ospreys remain close to their nests while parents continue feeding them as they learn to hunt fish on Kielder Water ahead of their 5,000 mile migration to sub-Sarahan Africa in just a few weeks time. 

A Crowdfunder appeal has been launched to support these amazing birds, with the British Airways Better World Community Fund generously matching individual donations up to a maximum value of £250. All contributions will help fund improvements to cameras and livestreaming equipment, as well as the installation of new nesting platforms.