Effects of a false Autumn.
False start to autumn leaves trees in trouble. The nation’s trees are said to be showing worrying signs of a false autumn after the prolonged drought.
According to Devon Wildlife Trust, trees are also losing their leaves far too soon and the unseasonably brown landscapes in August are a reason for concern.
The most obvious thing that we are seeing is some trees have to shut up shop effectively and close early. And if nature’s timing is out, then that’s a real problem. The trees are under stress because of the lack of water and are dropping leaves to save water and energy.
Steve Hussey, Wildlife Trust
The resulting effects of a false autumn has a significant knock-on for trees and wildlife alike into the real autumn months and beyond. With the worst effects now being observed in the southwest region. Some stressed trees might not make it through to next year while others might become weaker and more prone to diseases.
Blackberries, hazelnuts, and other autumn food sources are arriving prematurely and in smaller quantities, meaning that many birds, insects, and mammals may struggle to find enough food to build up energy stores for the winter. For animals such as the hedgehog and dormouse, this year’s wild autumn harvest was “thinner, less bountiful,” and “very early” — more like an afternoon snack than the much-needed pre-winter feast.
I think we won’t know the full extent of the damage until probably next spring.
Rebecca Bevan, National Trust
The West Midlands became the latest area to have a drought declared by the Environment Agency as officials warned that sustained rainfall was needed in the coming months.
Source: The Times
Published: 24th August 2022