Spring: Our Osprey Are Back!

Every spring, our iconic osprey return to Kinclune Estate in Angus after migrating thousands of miles from Africa to Scotland. As one of the most remarkable birds of prey to watch, the osprey in Scotland has become a symbol of resilience, and their arrival marks the true beginning of spring on the estate. They spend the warmer months raising their chicks here before beginning their long journey south again for winter.

Osprey in Scotland: A Conservation Success Story

Osprey were extinct in Scotland by 1916 after years of persecution and egg collection, but naturally re‑colonised in 1954. Since then, they’ve become one of the country’s great conservation success stories, with over 200 breeding pairs now recorded.

This year, we’re delighted to have three pairs nesting right on our doorstep — a wonderful sight for anyone interested in osprey nesting sites in Scotland or Scottish birds of prey.

Osprey build large eyries and typically lay two or three eggs. The female incubates and protects the chicks for around 37 days, while the male provides food for the whole family. They are largely monogamous and often return to the same nest site year after year, sometimes for a decade or more.

Where to See Osprey at Kinclune Estate

Kinclune sits between three exceptional lochs, in one of the richest areas for wildlife in Angus—Lintrathen Reservoir (a Site of Special Scientific Interest), the RSPB Kinnordy Loch Nature Reserve, and Backwater Reservoir. Together they offer clean, unpolluted waters rich in fish, creating ideal hunting grounds for these remarkable birds of prey.

Osprey hunt by soaring over the water, scanning for fish near the surface. When they spot one, they dive with wings half‑folded, plunging up to a metre into the water before rising with their catch gripped in long, curved talons. Through spring and summer, it’s common to see them carrying impressively large fish back to their nests or pausing on a fencepost to feed — a highlight for anyone looking for where to see osprey in Scotland.

Book a stay in one of our self‑catering holiday homes and experience the wildlife, tranquillity and natural beauty of Kinclune Estate and the Angus Glens.