Wildfires threaten top predators and their habitats
Red kites, kestrels, and barn owls are among the British wildlife species facing heightened danger from wildfires, according to a new report from the National Trust. The charred landscape left in the wake of fires not only destroys nests and habitats but also disrupts the broader food chains on which these raptors depend.
Why top predators are especially vulnerable
As apex or near-apex scavengers and hunters, red kites rely on a steady supply of carrion and small animals such as mice and voles. These prey species, in turn, feed on seeds and vegetation that can be irreparably damaged by fire. When habitats burn, the intricate balance of predator-prey relationships is disrupted, making it harder for red kites to find enough food, raise chicks, and maintain healthy populations.
Direct and indirect impacts of fires
Direct impacts include nest destruction, loss of feeding grounds, and injury to birds in burned areas. Indirect impacts are more insidious: reduced prey abundance, degraded roosting sites, and increased competition for resources in surrounding landscapes. The National Trust notes that the cumulative effect of repeated or unusually severe wildfires could push some species toward local declines or even local extinction in highly affected regions.
What the National Trust is calling for
The charity emphasizes proactive land management and conservation strategies to shield vulnerable raptors from wildfire effects. Suggested actions include:
- Maintaining mosaic habitats that include hedgerows, woodland edges, and open grassland to provide alternative foraging opportunities during fire seasons.
- Controlled burning and landscape-scale fire planning to minimize high-risk areas while preserving critical nesting sites.
- Enhanced monitoring of red kite populations to detect declines early and respond with targeted habitat restoration.
- Public awareness campaigns about wildfire risks and the importance of reporting suspicious fires promptly.
Protecting corvids, owls, and other raptors
While red kites are among the most visible beneficiaries of parliamentary and charity-led conservation, other raptors such as kestrels and barn owls also face similar dangers. These species often nest in hedgerows, rural barns, and former agricultural buildings, all of which can be compromised by wildfire. Protecting these birds requires collaborative efforts among landowners, conservation groups, and local authorities to maintain safe nesting cavities, secure food sources, and suitable roosting sites even during dry spells and fire seasons.
What you can do to help
Residents and visitors can contribute by supporting local conservation initiatives, reporting fires quickly, and adopting fire-smart practices on farms and estates. Simple steps include:
- Creating firebreaks around important habitats and undergrowth management that reduces fuel loads.
- Promoting native vegetation that supports prey species while withstanding seasonal heat more effectively.
- Engaging with local groups to plant and maintain hedgerows and nesting habitats that provide safe havens for red kites and other raptors during recovery after a wildfire.
A hopeful path forward
Wildfires pose a grave risk to red kites and other birds of prey, yet proactive conservation and responsible land management can help mitigate the damage. By prioritizing habitat resilience, monitoring at-risk populations, and encouraging community involvement, the National Trust and its partners aim to preserve Britain’s rich raptor heritage for future generations.
