England’s ancient oak trees dying in extreme hot and dry weather
Ancient oak trees in England are dying due to extreme heatwaves and prolonged dry weather conditions. Conservationists note that older trees are struggling to adapt to the rapid pace of climate change, leading to premature leaf loss and tree death.
Why it matters
The loss of ancient ecosystems highlights the severe, irreversible impact of climate change on biodiversity and natural heritage.
The Major oak with supporting poles in Sherwood Forest: ‘One of the main reasons that tree died is because of these extreme weather conditions.’ The Major oak with supporting poles in Sherwood Forest: ‘One of the main reasons that tree died is because of these extreme weather conditions.’ Trees and forests England’s ancient oak trees dying in extreme hot and dry weather Woodland Trust says trees struggling in drought stress, with older ‘survivors’ disproportionately affected
Prefer the Guardian on Google England’s ancient oak trees are dying in the summer’s extreme heat and dry weather, according to the Woodland Trust, with trees and ecosystems unable to adapt fast enough to the changing climate.
The heatwaves across much of Europe this summer have had a notable impact on crop growth and plant health. To cope with the extreme conditions, many trees are undergoing “early autumn”, wilting and losing their leaves early.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in