A fire has apparently devastated about 2.5 hectares of Studland Heath (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dorset/content/articles/2008/05/23/studland_heath_fire_feature.shtml) that is one of the locations we use in Dorset. The fire (thought to be cigarette-related) could not have occurred at a worse time in a location that is home to all 6 species of British reptiles including the vanishingly rare Smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and the endangered Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) that would all have been active on the surface. It is estimated that about 500 reptiles will have died in the fire. Many rare birds will also have been feeding their broods here at this time. Flowers and insects will also have been destroyed. The National Trust reckon that it will take decades for the heath to recover.
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Wednesday, 20 May 2009
Studland Heath Goes Up in Smoke
A fire has apparently devastated about 2.5 hectares of Studland Heath (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dorset/content/articles/2008/05/23/studland_heath_fire_feature.shtml) that is one of the locations we use in Dorset. The fire (thought to be cigarette-related) could not have occurred at a worse time in a location that is home to all 6 species of British reptiles including the vanishingly rare Smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and the endangered Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) that would all have been active on the surface. It is estimated that about 500 reptiles will have died in the fire. Many rare birds will also have been feeding their broods here at this time. Flowers and insects will also have been destroyed. The National Trust reckon that it will take decades for the heath to recover.
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