RSPB runs conservation in the UK, runs habitats, and monitors birds; current news centers on drought, habitat threats, and rewilding efforts.
England endures a fourth heatwave this summer, with drought conditions expanding across the country. Hosepipe bans are in place or expanding, reservoirs remain low, and experts warn that only sustained rainfall will ease the strain on water resources and wildlife.
The Major Oak in Sherwood Forest has died after failing to sprout leaves this spring. RSPB confirms the ancient tree, believed to be about 1,200 years old, succumbed to climate pressures, soil compaction from footfall, and prior intervention. The death marks a significant moment for the UK’s forest heritage and prompts reflection on conservation and visitor impact.
Swift populations in the UK have declined sharply in recent decades due to loss of nesting sites. Cambridge’s Darwin College and other buildings are hosting nest boxes to support swift colonies. A live camera on the Attenborough Building provides public viewing as part of ongoing conservation efforts.
NatureScot plans an online register for Scotland’s ancient woodlands, recording location and conditioning. The system, due to live in 2027, will include conifer forests, recently planted woodlands and even ‘ghost’ woods, with a PIN procurement launching 2026–27.
The Welsh government has pledged a multi-year budget for farming subsidies, ring-fenced at 340m a year until March 2030, amid debate over sustainability and how best to support the sector as farms adapt to environmental schemes and legacy funding transitions.
Three new osprey chicks have been ringed at Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve, Cumbria, with a long-standing pair producing three healthy youngsters. The release notes that the Birds’ life history is tracked to understand habitat needs amid ongoing conservation pressures.
Bill Oddie, the Goodies star and longtime wildlife presenter, has died aged 85. His agent says he was a multi-talented figure who championed conservation, with Springwatch and Birding with Bill Oddie among his notable programs. He faced battles with mental health throughout his life.
A large wildfire on Dunwich Heath and Minsmere has devastated 150 hectares of heathland, threatening rare birds and invertebrates. Firefighters are stabilising the blaze, while authorities warn of long-term ecological and tourism impacts. A fundraising drive has been launched to support recovery as authorities assess the damage.
A wildfire in Cairngorms National Park near Aviemore has burned thousands of acres of moor and woodland since July 15. More than 500 firefighters have tackled the blaze. A £3 million fund administered by Highland Council is established to support businesses hit by disruption, with ongoing cordons and reopening plans.
Twenty-one white storks released in Cornwall take their first steps toward freedom, with most birds hatched locally. The effort mirrors Knepp’s model and aims to build a sustainable population, while Natural England cautions that such releases are not a priority. The project hopes to spark long-term rewilding in the region.