ALL eyes are on a Lake District osprey after three of her eggs were confirmed.

Visitors at Whinlatter watched on television screens as KL, the ringed female, laid her first egg at Bassenthwaite on April 23.

Fran Currie, of the Lake District Osprey Project, said: “When KL returned to Bassenthwaite this year, we had high hopes for the arrival of some eggs, after she successfully mated with an unringed male last season.

“We believe it is the same unringed male which has returned this year too, as he has similar markings and behaviour – so it’s fantastic they have both come back as ospreys are not always guaranteed to return to the same site.”

KL had another two eggs confirmed on April 26 and 29.

Ms Currie added that last year she laid two eggs, which is not uncommon for a first year of breeding, but to have three confirmed already is a ‘great start to the season’.

“For KL to lay the first egg during the opening hours of Whinlatter Visitor Centre was brilliant, as it gave visitors and staff the chance to witness this incredible spectacle – they were glued to the television screens,” added Ms Currie.

Incubation is carried out mainly by the female and takes between 35-40 days, with the average being 37.

Ms Currie continued: “The next few weeks will be an ideal time for people to come to the viewing points at Dodd Wood or Whinlatter and watch these incredible birds, as KL can be seen incubating the eggs and if visitors are very lucky, they may see the male bird hunting over the lake.”

Since the Lake District Osprey Project began in 2001, the ospreys have nested successfully at Bassenthwaite every year - raising over 20 chicks.

To get involved with the project call Nathan Fox at Whinlatter on 01768 778469.

Osprey fans can keep an eye on the action via webcam by visiting www.ospreywatch.co.uk