Managing England’s publicly owned forests for people, wildlife and business
Wildfires across the UK and Europe have intensified amid record heat. Fire services report growing incidents, with disposable barbecues and campfires increasingly blamed for ignitions. Officials warn residents to take extra care and governments consider stronger prevention measures for countryside recreation.
A wildfire on Dunwich Heath near Minsmere has burned hundreds of acres, destroying habitat for rare species. Firefighters have stabilised the blaze, while authorities urge caution and local volunteers rally to support habitat recovery through fundraising and long-term stewardship.
The New Forest wildfire has destroyed thousands of hectares of heath and bog, and crews are wrapping up operations while restoration plans draw on past experiences; visitors are urged to heed safety warnings and temporary bans on disposable barbecues as authorities assess long-term environmental impact.
A long-running study of carrion crows uses tiny microphones and artificial intelligence to decode their complex vocalizations, revealing thousands of hours of calls from birds and brood parasites. The researchers say the work advances understanding of crow communication and behavior.
Lewes Town Council has unanimously approved a motion recognizing the intrinsic value of local trees, hedgerows and forests. The measure establishes a town-wide, rights-based framework to protect urban greens, aligning Lewes with international rights-of-nature trends while aiming to boost climate resilience and deter inappropriate development.
Gloucestershire and Forestry England are surveying for a potential beaver reintroduction in the Severn Vale. Defra says beaver reintroduction could boost nature recovery, with beavers already in Greathough Brook since 2018. A licence would be required, and consultations with landowners are underway.
Two of five released white-tailed eagle pairs have bred, with three chicks fledging this year across Dorset and Sussex. Nine wild-born birds have appeared since 2019 as conservation efforts gather pace.