A record number of ospreys were spotted fishing in the Axe Estuary at the start of September.

Nature enthusiasts have flocked to the Tower Hide at Seaton Wetlands to see the birds diving into the estuary waters.

The estuary, home to grey mullet, serves as an ideal feeding ground for the fish-specialist ospreys as they prepare for their migration to sub-Saharan Africa.

East Devon District Council’s (EDDC) portfolio holder for coast, countryside, and environment Geoff Jung, said: "Witnessing spellbinding wildlife encounters such as these is exactly why EDDC has invested in the Seaton Wetlands project.

"This natural draw adds a broader shoulder season to our tourism offer in this part of East Devon."

The site, designed to bring people and wildlife together without causing disturbance, has seen a surge of visitors eager to catch a glimpse of the ospreys.

James Chubb, countryside manager for EDDC, said: "We’ve seen lots of people already trooping down to the Tower Hide for a view of the ospreys as word has spread locally, but there are so many other spots on the reserve with good views of the estuary.

"In previous years, ospreys have been seen right up until the end of September, so we hope to enjoy this spectacular scene for a few more weeks."

Plans are in place to install nesting platforms for the ospreys this winter, with hopes that they might become a summer resident in the Axe Estuary.

Mr Chubb said: "Last year we saw the first ever successful breeding of avocet in Devon, here at Seaton Wetlands, and to add osprey to that list would be a sensational achievement."

The ospreys are expected to remain in the area until the end of September.