IT’S been a cracking year for Kielder’s ospreys with a record 12 chicks making their way into the world.

A dozen osprey chicks have hatched at Kielder Water & Forest Park – the highest number since the birds returned eight years ago.

The chicks will now begin to build their strength for their challenging first year of life, which will include solo migration flights.

Bird watchers keen to keep an eye on the chicks as they fledge and take their first flights can tune into live webcams.

The cameras are streamed to the Forestry Commission’s Kielder Castle and Northumbrian Water’s Kielder Waterside.

Joanna Dailey, volunteer Kielder osprey expert, said: “It’s proving to be another rewarding season for all involved with the Kielder ospreys, with another record hatching proving the icing on the cake so far.

“It’s fantastic to see the species thriving here once more after an absence spanning more than 200 years.

“Now they are here for all to see thanks to cameras on the nests and there is a chance to catch a glimpse as the ospreys go hunting for fish to bring back to their families.”

Wildlife enthusiasts can also keep up to date with the ospreys through a blog at kielderospreys.wordpress.com

Osprey Watch volunteer co-ordinator Katy Smart said: “The Kielder ospreys are once more proving very popular with visitors as interest has grown year on year since the recolonisation in 2009. Osprey Watch itself has expanded this year, so visitors can take part in activities every weekend and Monday until the birds migrate in mid to late August.”