We find Ospreys.

This camp site has a well-kept secret. From a certain vantage point, you can just make out the nest of the Dyfi Ospreys. Three chicks hatched from Idris (male) and Telyn (female) and now growing fast. Watch live HERE     We could just make out the nest platform on the other side of the river, and we all felt that it was possible to get that bit nearer.

                                            

Taken with 300 zoom and then cropped.

So after lunch we set off, taking the woodland path towards Pennal, and would you believe that path was within yards of MB! All that trek the other day to find Pennal, and it was right on our doorstep after all! 

Anyway, the walk took us through the village and left at a public footpath sign. From here it was a bit of trial and error as to which way to go, but Sheila again to the rescue by consulting the ordinance survey map on the phone.

A worrying sight was seen when Ian stopped suddenly and mentioned Japanese Knotweed. An invasive plant species that once gets a foothold, is almost impossible to eradicate. Most surprisingly, you don't have to report this plant to the local authorities, or to possible home buyers, even though it can do no end of damage to property foundations. 

Eventually we came to the river, and a small, uneven track was followed until we could go no further. 

 

We were so close, the platform could be seen as could the Ospreys, but still not near enough for a decent photo. Our initial thoughts were to stay and watch if Idris would go off hunting along the river, but those pesky horse flies... buzzing us continually, and if anyone has ever been bitten by one, they would know of the itch and swelling it causes! We left in a bit of a hurry after several photos taken, so I was happy, and a good look through the binoculars showed us both birds on the nest with some clarity.

Idris is on the post.

Just missed him taking off.

A hurried departure.

 On the way back, we spied our camp site in the distance. MB could be seen but not Alan's, or Sheila's motorhomes.

Back at the site and my Fitbit watch showed I had down over 13000 steps, that was well over 5 miles. It was so worth the walk and the glorious sunny weather made for a perfect afternoon. Of course, more wildlife to see on the way to the Ospreys, so here are today's photos.

Clouded border moth

 

Pond skater