Urgent £40k fundraising appeal launched by Surrey Wildlife Trust after wildfire
A local charity say they need to raise £40,000 to restore rare heathland and protect 200 red deer.
In July, a wildfire broke out on Pirbright Ranges with patches of ground continuing to burn for three weeks and over 650 hectares of heathland severely burnt.
Surrey Wildlife Trust’s herd of red deer carry out a vital role by grazing the heathland to prevent scrub from taking over the site.
Following the fire, hundreds of meters of fencing and heavy-duty sleepers that keep the deer safely on site now needs to be replaced – and the ongoing welfare of the herd will depend on regular vet checks and inspections by SWT staff.
Supplementary food will also be made available to the deer to ensure they have enough to maintain good condition heading into winter.
The immediate impact of the fire also includes the potential loss of hundreds of recently fledged rare ground-nesting birds including European nightjars, Dartford warblers and woodlark which may have been too young to fly away from the fire.
Reptiles like slow worms, grass snakes and adders have also been unable to escape the fire.
Surrey Wildlife Trust’s director of reserves management, James Herd, says:
“Wildfires have put Surrey on the front line of the climate and nature emergency – and we urgently need extra support to meet the challenge. Whilst the heathland will regenerate over time, it is likely to be eight to twelve years before it returns to full health.
"The deer will perform a unique and irreplaceable role in ensuring the lowland habitats recover during this time.
"All donations we receive will go directly to ensuring their welfare and the continuing safety of Surrey’s heathlands and their unique plants and animals.
“With the help of local people, we will do all we can to explore what more can be done to protect our natural heritage as weather patterns change. It’s vitally important that people in Surrey can continue to reap the benefits of diverse and healthy ecosystems.”
David Nolan, Area Commander for Surrey Fire and Rescue Service said:
“Surrey Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to be wildfire aware. We have seen an increase in the number of wildfires we are attending recently and are asking residents to help keep Surrey safe.
"Please pack a picnic instead of a BBQ, and don’t have campfires or bonfires when the weather is dry! Ensure you dispose of cigarettes and litter correctly.”