A major wildfire broke out on Upton Heath last week, underlining the extreme fire risk currently threatening Dorset’s heathlands due to prolonged dry weather. Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service acted quickly to contain the blaze, but nevertheless, the fire still caused extensive and serious damage to this rare and vulnerable heathland habitat, home to species such as sand lizards, smooth snakes and Dartford warblers.

Wildfires pose a serious threat, not only destroying vegetation but also displacing and endangering wildlife that depends on heathlands for their survival. Ground-nesting birds like nightjars and Dartford warblers, along with reptiles and invertebrates are especially vulnerable. Fires can rapidly consume dry vegetation, destroying nests and eggs and leaving surviving animals with little to no food or shelter, putting entire populations at risk.