At 3.34pm on Saturday afternoon, March 24th, Nora returned home to her Dyfi nest where she successfully raised three chicks for the first time last year. Volunteers Alan and Mair were painting and putting the final touches in place in the new extended visitor centre when they cried out "Osprey, osprey..".  I must admit, I thought it was the old Ospreyitis having claimed another victim. A quick scan of the skies and cameras revealed nothing, whatever bird it was stayed for a short time only - seconds.

Going back to the camera recordings revealed a bird on the highest-most point on the ash tree perch - it was an osprey alright. Alan and Mair were Ospreyitis-free, but was it one of ours?

An osprey, probably a female, but who?

As the sun was setting, all of our questions were answered. The female returned to the perch and stayed for a few seconds before being displaced by three carrion crows, not before we managed to zoom one of the cameras on her, however. She had a leg ring on her right foot, White 03. Nora had returned home from Africa.

Nora off-balance as she fought off the attacking crows

For those that are new to the Dyfi ospreys, Nora is a 2008-born bird from Rutland Water. Her father is one of the most successful male ospreys that we know of, having raised 24 chicks to date. He's returned back again to Rutland for the 2012 season, just a few days ago.

Before finally disappearing down river on a fishing trip, Nora returned to the nest for a few seconds last night before the crows dislodged her again. She looks in great condition but was clearly hungry - look at her empty crop (just below the throat).

(Watch in 1080P setting, it's stunning!)

When will her mate, Monty, return? We will, as ever, let you know as soon as we see him.