Osprey observation point, Ham Common Lookout
Updated 10th January 2023
The Project
BCP has partnered with the Birds of Poole Harbour charity and Haven Rockley Park to create an Osprey observation point at Ham Common Nature Reserve in Poole. The Ham Common Lookout platform gives great views out across the Wareham channel where these birds can be observed hunting.
This follows the charity’s much celebrated success of the Poole Harbour Osprey Translocation Project, which in 2022 witnessed the hatching of the first wild osprey chick in southern Britain in 200 years.
The new observation point opened to the public on 26th August 2022, peak Osprey migration season, with a number being seen in what had already been an excellent year.
Visitors are treated to great views out across the Wareham channel where Ospreys can be observed hunting.
An Osprey sculpture is yet to be installed at the platform; once this is in place, a formal opening event will be organised.
The Ham Common Lookout information panel
The Osprey observation point, Ham Common Lookout, August 2022
The Osprey observation point, Ham Common Lookout, August 2022
The new observation point was open to the public on August 2022, peak Osprey migration season, with a number being seen in what had already been an excellent year. Visitors are treated to great views out across the Wareham channel where Ospreys can be observed hunting
In addition to Osprey, the new observation platform is also an excellent spot to see magnificent White-tailed Eagles, several of which are also present at the harbour. The eagles, which have an eight foot wingspan, originated from the Isle of Wight reintroduction programme hosted by The Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation and Forestry England.
Keep an eye on the Birds of Poole Harbour website and their social media for upcoming events at the observation point:
The Birds of Poole Harbour would also encourage bird watchers to report their sightings at the Twitter or Facebook links above.
Information panels at Ham Common Lookout
Project details
Funding Planning Obligations (Hamworthy Ward) with a substantial contribution from Haven Rockley Park and Birds of Poole Harbour
Project Leader Terry Elborn, Environmental Services, BCP Council
T. 01202 123432
E. environment@poole.gov.uk
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