What To Know
- A manor flooded for the first time in 300 yearsA series of devastating storms have left their mark across England and Wales.
- The year 2024 witnessed an unusual blend of heat and humidity leading to what experts term as ‘seasonal homogenization,’ where seasonal distinctions blur—a phenomenon unsettling for many predator species reliant on clear seasonal cues.
In the UK, extreme weather conditions pose a genuine threat to Britain’s heritage. The largest conservation charity in the country is raising the alarm.
a rising threat to british heritage
The looming specter of climate change has cast a long shadow over Britain’s historic landmarks. From ancient castles to gardens steeped in history, Britain’s heritage has withstood wars and time’s ravages for centuries but now faces an unprecedented menace. The largest non-profit conservation association in the UK has published its year-end report, painting a rather alarming picture. Storms and floods have already damaged some of the most cherished elements of British heritage.
a manor flooded for the first time in 300 years
- Many mature trees were felled by these tempests.
- Floodwaters inflicted damage on buildings and gardens alike.
historical buildings suffering from extreme weather
The architectural relics that dot the British landscape were not built to withstand such meteorological extremes. Many possess antiquated gutters and drainage systems prone to overflowing during heavy rains, which can affect both exteriors and interiors of these historic edifices.
Moreover, it’s not just structures that are at risk; Britain’s natural heritage is equally imperiled. The year 2024 witnessed an unusual blend of heat and humidity leading to what experts term as ‘seasonal homogenization,’ where seasonal distinctions blur—a phenomenon unsettling for many predator species reliant on clear seasonal cues.
decline in insect populations observed this year
An unpredictable climate spells confusion for wildlife and erodes what were once predictable seasons. Notably, the Celestial Blue butterfly (Polyommatus bellargus) has become increasingly scarce. Experts recorded merely 333 individuals in one Dorset region in 2024 compared to 1,459 just a year prior. Other species including various butterflies, wasps, and bees are also experiencing population declines within the UK.
encouraging signs for british flora and fauna
The report isn’t entirely devoid of hope; there are indeed silver linings amidst these environmental challenges. Rare dragonflies have been spotted thriving in peatlands—most notably the Scarce Chaser dragonfly (Libellula fulva), sighted at Wicken Fen within Cambridgeshire.
- Dragonflies benefited from rainy spells following consecutive dry years.
- Younger trees thrived due to ample moisture aiding their root development.
Mature trees found relief through wet conditions after enduring prolonged dry periods while slugs and snails flourished within garden settings thanks to increased humidity levels.
a new gray seal colony established on england’s east coast
This year brought good tidings along Suffolk’s eastern coast as rangers confirmed presence of the county’s first-ever gray seal colony (Halichoerus grypus). These seals made their home upon Orford Ness’s secluded beach—a site chosen likely due its minimal human interference coupled with overcrowding issues at nearby colonies like Blakeney or Horsey Gap.
