Osprey ‘Laddie’, YouTube Star, Found Dead Near Scotland’s Loch of the Lowes: Report

Scotland Police has sought the public’s help in investigating the remains of an osprey found at the Loch of the Lowes reserve, Perthshire. The death of the protected species within the Loch of the Lowes reserve has raised suspicion of criminality, even though police is yet to confirm it.

According to the BBC, law enforcement officials are collaborating with partner agencies to ascertain the complete circumstances surrounding the incident. The authorities have stated that inquiries are in the preliminary stages.

Osprey ‘Laddie’, also called LM12, held a cherished place in the birdwatching community and gained celebrity status on YouTube, thanks to his frequent appearances on the Loch of the Lowes Osprey nest live webcam. Over the past four years, Laddie formed a devoted partnership with female NC0, resulting in the successful fledging of seven chicks.

“We are appealing for information after the remains of an osprey were found near Dunkeld, Perth and Kinross, on Friday, 3 May, 2024. The protected species is believed to have been nesting at Loch of the Lowes, close to where it was found,” Scotland Police said in a statement.”Enquiries are at an early stage to establish the full circumstances.”

Inspector James Longden said: “It is illegal to kill any protected species and we are working closely alongside partner agencies to confirm what has happened here and whether there is any criminality involved.

“Information from the local community could prove vital and it is important we speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area, or who may know something which could assist our investigation.

“Any information can be passed to Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 3266 of Friday, 3 May, 2024. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”