Preparations are under way for the return of the ospreys to Rutland Water

Wildlife enthusiasts are putting the final touches to a nesting site ready for the return of Rutland’s ospreys.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the project to relocate the birds from Scotland and establish a new breeding programme.

Since then more than 150 chicks have hatched at Rutland Water and hopes are high for more new arrivals when the birds return later this month.

People will also be able to et an even better view of the action thanks to the arrival of new webcams.

The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife trust staged an appeal to raise £15,000 for new web cameras at Manton Bay.

The target was reached and it is hoped the camera will be up and running for when ospreys Maya and 33 return.

The new technology will offer clearer footage with sound and allow operators to control the camera angles for a better view.

Osprey information officer Abi Mustard said: “The new webcam will make such a difference to everyone’s overall viewing experience, particularly at the beginning of the season when the reserve is still closed.

“Having audio will give a whole new perspective which I think we will really benefit from.”

The ospreys are expected to return in mid-March.

Before that their nest has been given a spring clean after it was damaged by some nesting cormorants.

Their return will coincide with World Osprey Week starting on Monday, March 22.

The Rutland team have joined forces with five other osprey groups this year to host a range of online activities and competitions.

Daily updates will be shared on the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife trust website.

The programme is aimed at primary school children but anyone can take part by visiting: www.lrwt.org.uk

Later in the season the project team are looking forward to welcoming visitors back to the nature reserve when lockdown restrictions are lifted.

It is hoped the reserve could reopen in April.

The team would also like to plan a series of events and celebrations to mark 25 years of the Rutland Osprey Project.