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
TL;DR
- Ancient oak trees in England are dying from extreme heat and drought.
- Trees are showing signs of 'early autumn' with wilting and premature leaf loss.
- Older and veteran trees are more vulnerable and disproportionately affected.
- The Major oak, one of Europe's oldest, died in June due to extreme weather conditions.
- Experts predict up to half of ancient oaks could be lost in the next 60 years.
- Beech trees and even drought-tolerant pine trees are also struggling across Europe.
- Increased calls are being received for 'limb failure' in trees during hot, dry weather.
- The speed of climate change is too rapid for trees and ecosystems to adapt.
- Seven ancient oaks in England and Wales are identified as being in critical condition.