Ospreys are returning to the Usk Valley…

Protecting one of the few breeding pairs in Wales

In 2023 a pair of ospreys built a magnificent nest at the top of an oak tree on Gilestone Farm, on the outskirts of Talybont on Usk. This is the first pair to successfully build a nest this far south in Wales for hundreds of years. Our group aims to make sure the ospreys are properly protected and to give the birds the best possible chance of thriving in their new home.

The nest is situated on Gilestone Farm, owned by Welsh Government. Following the arrival of the pair in 2023 the government moved quickly to protect the nest, to commission a conservation plan and more recently to install a nest cam. Both the government and the tenant farmer are to be commended for their positive approach.

A NEW APPEAL

(March 2025)

Volunteering Opportunities

The main purpose of the charity is the protection and monitoring of one particular nest at Talybont- On-Usk and, on a wider scope, any future nests that may appear in the Usk valley. Going forward we hope that education, at all levels, about these amazing birds will take on a more prominent role.

We are currently looking for two new members to join the committee with responsibilities for specific tasks, these are:

1. FUNDRAISER

The ospreys need someone to help raise much needed funds to cover, in particular, non-capital expenditures, as the majority of the overheads are from the ongoing maintenance and streaming of 3 cameras that ensure the safety and scientific studies of the birds and the nest.

2. SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICER

The ospreys require an enthusiastic person to bring awareness and understanding to local schools and other organisations. We are already in contact with some local schools and enlisting the staff and children in a naming scheme for the ospreys when they hopefully return. The ongoing plan is to produce a standardised digital presentation which can then be simply used by our volunteers.

Should you be interested in either of these posts please do not hesitate to contact UVO directly at info@uskvalleyospreys.org. Please also visit the rest of this website, www.uskvalleyospreys.org for a comprehensive overview of the group and its activities.