The famous Loch of the Lowes osprey has become a publishing sensation, with a book dedicated to her making more than £1000 in just over a month.
The collection of poems, stories and photographs was created as a lasting tribute to the 25-year-old bird of prey following fears that she may not return for another season.
Staff at the Dunkeld visitor centre have said they are “overwhelmed” by the interest in the book, which has sold almost 100 copies since its release in December.
So far, £1299 has been made in sales, with profits going towards the reserve’s satellite tagging fund.
Titled The Lady Of The Loch, the book was the brainchild of Shirley Davis, a member of the group of online bloggers who have faithfully followed the adventures of ospreys Lady and Laird.
After an unsuccessful appeal for help in publishing the collection, the Loch of the Lowes team stepped in to ensure that the idea became a reality, as well as contributing their own diary entries.
Following a delay in delivery caused by the severe winter weather, Lady’s fans are now finally getting their hands on the book.
One of the fund-raisers and group members, Susan McVey, said she was “blown away” by the publication and described it as “fantastic.”
“We are all proud of Shirley and the way she has pulled it all together, giving us these amazing memories and keepsake all rolled into one book,” she told The Courier.
“The poems are just fantastic some of them just reduce you to tears and have come right from the heart, while some are funny and witty but they are all very inspiring.
“The book covers such a rollercoaster of emotions for us all, which we can all relate to.”
Susan added that she and her fellow bloggers hope that the book will continue to sell and keep adding to the “amazing” amount of money already raised.
She continued, “I know that some of our bloggers have said they are going to order more for their families and friends, so that will add to sales.
“The book has also been sold to some of our ‘over the pond’ bloggers too, which is amazing to know that it has been sold abroad.
“It certainly is one of a kind, that’s for sure, and the Scottish Wildlife Trust has made a great job of printing it for us.
“Hopefully we will have more projects in the pipeline to raise funds for Loch of the Lowes for our magnificent birds,” she added.