Fears for wildlife as wildfire spreads at RSPB Minsmere in Suffolk

We are deeply concerned about the wildfire at our flagship RSPB Minsmere nature reserve. Currently (2pm, Thursday 30 July), the fire is covering an area of around 100ha of heathland on both RSPB and National Trust land.  

We are asking members of the public to follow the fire service’s advice and avoid the area. This includes keeping roads clear for the emergency services. 

 Alongside the safety of everyone involved, one of our key worries is for the reserve's wildlife. Rare birds such as Dartford Warbler, Woodlark and Nightjar all had a good breeding season this spring, and although there will be few birds still on the nest, the destruction of their habitat is a major issue.  

In some areas, we have 20-year-old heather and this will take two decades to regrow. We are also worried about reptiles such as Adders and other slow-moving creatures that cannot easily escape an advancing fire. Likewise, we are concerned about rare butterflies currently laying eggs, such as the Silver-studded Blue. 

 Alongside the wildlife, we are also concerned about our visitor centre and facilities. This is a hugely popular site, enjoyed by many thousands of people every year. 

 We’re very grateful for the efforts and support of the fire service and other partners working at the scene. RSPB Minsmere will remain closed to visitors until further notice. Residents in the local area are also being advised to keep windows and doors closed where possible.  

We will provide further updates via our RSPB Minsmere Facebook page and the Minsmere web page as they become available. 

Extreme weather, caused by climate change, is increasing the scale, intensity, and frequency of wildfires both in the UK and globally.   

While warm weather increases the risk of a fire, often the spark that starts a wildfire is linked to activity by people. Please take extra care when spending time outdoors this summer.