Osprey chicks to take flight soon

The young ospreys are expected to start flying in the near future

Five chicks in the Tweed Valley Ospreys Project have been given a clean bill of health by Forestry Commission rangers.

They have been carrying out routine inspection and ringing of the birds at the site in the Scottish Borders.

The chicks are gaining weight, eager to start flying and perfectly fit and healthy according to Diane Bennett, community wildlife officer.

All the young birds can be seen at viewing centres at Glentress forest and Kailzie Gardens just outside Peebles.

"The chicks have grown remarkably quickly which is proof that their mum and dad are real experts at fishing," said Ms Bennett.

"It won't be too long until they take their first flight and already they are stretching and exercising their wings with real determination."