Dry conditions lead to wildfires on nature reserves

The first few days of April have seen several wildfires cause destruction at a number of nature reserves in the UK.

March was the driest on record for more than 60 years in England and Wales, with only 2.6 mm of rain recorded at St James's Park, London, during the course of the month. As bright conditions continued into April, concerns that large areas would be vulnerable to wildfires were realised as blazes broke out across the country.

A range of wildlife, including ground-nesting birds such as Eurasian Skylark and Meadow Pipit, are thought to have been impacted by the Gentleshaw Common fire (Staffordshire Wildlife Trust).

Nationwide fires

The first fire started at Upton Heath, Dorset, overnight on 2 April, with more than 50 ha burned after firefighters tackled the blaze for nine hours. This fire and another at nearby Canford Heath were caused by 'human intervention', according to Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Other fires broke out at Kincorth Hill NR, Aberdeenshire, the same day, and at Gentleshaw Common NR, Staffordshire, on 4 April. The Aberdeenshire fire took hold of some 1,500 sq m, reigniting two days after crews originally extinguished the flames.

The large grass fire at Gentleshaw Common, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) which adjoins Cannock Chase, covered approximately 1 ha and is thought likely to have killed small mammals and reptiles, and caused the failure of ground-nesting birds.

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said: "The cause of the fire is not yet clear, but we are working with Staffordshire Police and Staffordshire Wildlife Trust to establish the circumstances."

Jeff Sim, head of nature reserves at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust (SWT), said people can "play a part in preventing fires by not using BBQs, lighting fires or using naked flames and taking all litter home."

He added: "It is also vital that we respond quickly to any fires which might occur in the landscape. If you see fire anywhere in the outdoors please call 999 and report it immediately."