According to the Woodland Trust, England’s ancient oak trees are experiencing significant mortality during extreme heat and dry weather conditions affecting much of Europe this summer. The stress is causing trees to undergo early autumn by wilting and shedding leaves prematurely as their water transport systems become compromised during periods of prolonged drought.
Older and veteran trees are being disproportionately affected by these conditions. Conservation experts note that while ancient trees have historically demonstrated resilience, their advanced age reduces their ability to withstand extreme environmental stress. The death of the Major oak in June, one of Europe’s oldest and largest specimens, has been attributed primarily to these weather extremes. Currently, seven ancient oaks in England and Wales have been identified as being in critical condition due to drought stress.
Data on oak tree populations shows England contains approximately 3,300 oaks with circumferences greater than 6 meters, and about 114 exceeding 9 meters. Analysis of ancient oak mortality rates suggests that roughly half could be lost over the next 60 years, though experts believe this projection significantly underestimates potential losses when factoring in climate change acceleration. Sherwood Forest alone lost eight ancient oaks during 2024 and 2025.
The impact extends beyond oak species. Beech trees are also struggling with heat stress, and even drought-tolerant species like pines are dying across Europe. Urban tree management companies report increased calls related to limb failure during hot, dry periods as trees become unable to transport adequate moisture through their vascular systems, causing branches to become brittle. Experts emphasize that while forests naturally adapt over time, the current rate of climate change is outpacing the speed at which trees and ecosystems can evolve to cope with these altered conditions.
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