Countryside visitors urged to protect wildlife from devastating heatwave wildfires

Those who visit the countryside are being urged to take extra care during the summer holidays as another heatwave increases the threat of devastating wildfires.

The RSPCA has warned that prolonged periods of hot and dry weather have left grassland, heathland and other habitats across England and Wales particularly vulnerable to fire.

With schools closed and more families heading outdoors, the animal welfare charity says simple precautions could prevent fires and protect countless wild animals.

Wildfires not only destroy landscapes but cause widespread suffering to wildlife. Small mammals, reptiles and amphibians are particularly vulnerable because they may be unable to escape the flames.

Dr Rebecca Machin, scientific and policy officer for the RSPCA, said: “The summer holidays are a wonderful opportunity for people to get out and enjoy the countryside, but with more people spending time outdoors, it’s really important that we all take responsibility for keeping our surroundings and local wildlife safe.

“Wildfires are devastating for wildlife. For some animals, there may be nowhere to run. Those that live in dens, burrows and warrens can become trapped by the flames and smoke, while animals such as hedgehogs, harvest mice and slow worms may not be able to escape quickly enough.

“This is also a particularly vulnerable time of year for those with young. Nestlings, fledglings and ground-nesting birds, and juvenile bats are at significant risk as they will not be able to fly away and may become trapped in burning trees or other vegetation.

“Juvenile deer also stay hidden in grass until they can keep up with their mother, so they will also be in danger from these kinds of fire.

“When enjoying the countryside this summer, we’re asking people to think carefully about their actions and take extra care with anything that could cause a fire. A few simple precautions can make a huge difference to wildlife.”

Visitors are being asked to avoid lighting fires or doing anything that could create sparks.

The charity recommends choosing a picnic instead of a barbecue, particularly during hot and dry conditions. Anyone who does have a barbecue should check that it is permitted and can be used safely.

People should take all litter home because discarded glass and other materials can contribute to fires. Cigarettes must also be fully extinguished and disposed of responsibly, away from dry vegetation.

Anyone who spots a fire should immediately move away from the area and call the emergency services. They should never put themselves at risk by attempting to tackle the blaze.

Dr Machin added: “Fires can also destroy the habitats animals rely on for food and shelter, forcing surviving wildlife into unfamiliar areas where they may face further risks, including conflict with other animals and territorial disputes.

“These habitats are incredibly important for wildlife, including endangered species such as sand lizards and smooth snakes, and summer insects such as ladybirds, butterflies and beetles, which in turn provide an important food source for some smaller birds when they cannot find worms in the hard, dry ground.

“We want people to enjoy spending time outdoors, but we’re asking everyone to do so responsibly. Taking a few simple precautions can help reduce the risk of fires and protect the wild animals who call these places home.”

The warning comes as part of the RSPCA’s Cruelty Hurts, Love Rescues campaign.

The charity says reports of cruelty towards wild birds rise during the summer months, while animal cruelty overall is currently at its highest summer level for five years.