Nestled in the serene Usk Valley of Powys, Wales, the Usk Valley Ospreys (UVO) charity is making great strides in wildlife conservation. Their efforts focus on protecting and monitoring one of the few breeding pairs of ospreys in Wales—a clear sign of the species’ remarkable recovery after a long period of decline.
A Historic Return to the Usk Valley
In 2023, a pair of ospreys chose to nest on Gilestone Farm, near Talybont-on-Usk, marking the first successful osprey nesting in the area for over 200 years. This milestone was celebrated by local conservationists and the Welsh Government, which swiftly moved to protect the site, implementing a conservation plan and setting up a live-streaming nest camera to monitor the birds’ activities.
By 2025, the ospreys had laid three eggs, with the male diligently providing food for the female as she incubated them. This is especially significant as it marks the southernmost naturally occurring osprey nesting site in the UK.
Local Efforts and Community Involvement
UVO was founded by a passionate group of locals, including Fran Groves, Andy King, and Julie Burdon, with the backing of the Talybont Community Council. The charity works closely with various partners, including the Welsh Government, local farmers, and conservation groups, to ensure the safety and sustainability of the ospreys.
UVO’s key initiatives include:
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Live Nest Monitoring: A camera that streams real-time footage of the nesting pair, allowing the public to observe their behavior and nesting progress without disturbing them.
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Public Engagement: The charity is dedicated to educating the public, especially local schools, about ospreys and their conservation.
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Volunteer Opportunities: UVO encourages local community members to get involved by helping monitor the nesting site and participate in various activities.
In 2025, UVO is looking to expand its team by hiring a Fundraiser and a School Liaison Officer to further its outreach and fundraising goals.
Get Involved with Usk Valley Ospreys
There are many ways for individuals and groups to support UVO’s important work:
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Visit the Viewing Point: A designated spot near the nest offers an unobtrusive opportunity for visitors to observe the ospreys in their natural habitat.
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Watch the Live Feed: UVO’s nest camera allows anyone to watch the ospreys in real-time from the comfort of their own home.
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Become a Member: Membership is free, and donations are always appreciated to help fund ongoing conservation efforts.
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Volunteer: If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, UVO offers various volunteer opportunities, from helping monitor the nest to assisting with administrative tasks.
For more details about how to get involved or donate, visit the Usk Valley Ospreys website at www.uskvalleyospreys.org.
A Bright Future for Ospreys in Wales
UVO’s work showcases the critical role local communities play in wildlife conservation. Through their tireless dedication, the charity is not only contributing to the recovery of ospreys in Wales but also fostering a deeper connection between people and the natural world. Their ongoing efforts promise a hopeful future for ospreys and biodiversity in the Usk Valley and beyond.
