A healthy chick has already hatched on a camera-monitored nest high in the treetops of the forest, marking the latest chapter in an extraordinary wildlife success story that has seen 124 ospreys successfully fledge since 2009. 

The ongoing partnership between Forestry England and British Airways is continuing with the two organisations working together to support Northumberland’s natural heritage. 

A new Crowdfunder appeal has been launched to support the Kielder ospreys, with the airline pledging to match individual contributions pound for pound up to a maximum value of £250 through its BA Better World Community Fund.

A total of £15,000 in matched funding has been made available, potentially doubling donations up to £30,000. 

This support will fund improvements to livestreaming equipment, installation of new nesting platforms, and investment in nest cameras to gather vital information about these magnificent birds. 

Tom Dearnley, Ecologist at Forestry England said: 

"Despite their successful return, Kielder's ospreys face significant challenges including harsh weather, migration risks and predators. Last year more than half the chicks were lost to poor weather conditions in June, highlighting how precarious things can be for this important species and how much work is still required to give them the best possible chance. 

The support from both the public and British Airways is a fantastic boost to our team and will make a real difference to our work." 

Mike Pratt, Northumberland Wildlife Trust Chief Executive said:

“The ospreys have graced the Kielder skies since 2009, much to the delight of staff and visitors alike. It’s great news that British Airways is funding the appeal to ensure that, now matter where you are, thanks to the livestreaming equipment, wildlife lovers will be able to watch the antics of these amazing birds.”

The public can follow the daily lives of the ospreys through a livestream nest camera on YouTube showing everything from egg-laying to hatching, feeding, and the chicks’ first flights as they prepare for their annual epic migration south at the end of summer. 

They can also visit Osprey Watch at Tower Knowe visitor centre, where Northumberland Wildlife Trust’s expert volunteers and high-power telescopes offer a more in-depth visitor experience. 

As a special incentive, the first one hundred people to donate £25 or more will receive a limited-edition osprey pin badge to commemorate their contribution to the conservation effort. 

The birds, which migrate 3,700 miles from West Africa each spring, build their nests on specially constructed 8-metre-high poles throughout Forestry England Kielder. 

The Crowdfunder appeal runs until September 2025, with all funds going directly to support conservation efforts for these once-extinct birds. 

For more information visit forestryengland.uk. Forestry England is an agency of the Forestry Commission. 

To find out more about the ospreys at visit www.kielderospreys.wordpress.com