Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust have announced a major milestone for the Rutland osprey project as their 300th osprey flies the nest. 

Since the project's launch in 1996, 300 Rutland osprey have hatched, been ringed and flown the nest. Of the 300, 31 were from this year, making 2025 the most successful year in the project's history. 

The project was created to build a self-sustaining osprey population at Rutland Water, where adult osprey return year-on-year to nest during the summer months. 

2025 has been the most successful year in the project's history (Photo: ROP)

In a statement published by Rutland Osprey Project, the team celebrated this milestone, saying: 'It's amazing to look back over the years and there have been so many happy memories that we have loved sharing with you all. 

"From the first chick to hatch back in 2001, right through to this record year, there has been so much to celebrate. 

"Thank you for your support with all that we do, it means so much to us that you are all as enthusiastic as we are about these incredible birds. 

"We also want to give a huge thank you to everyone who has been involved with the Osprey Project, especially our marvellous volunteers who give not only their time, but also their expertise, to help keep the project running the way it is."